Hayali Şinasi Çelikkol
“The Karagöz screen is not a mere shadow; it is the centuries-old wit, tolerance, and collective soul of Anatolia.”
— Hayali Şinasi Çelikkol, Traditional Karagöz & Hacivat Shadow Puppetry & Leather Carving
Born in Bursa in 1947, Master Puppeteer (Hayali) Şinasi Çelikkol is an internationally celebrated living guardian of UNESCO-inscribed traditional shadow theater. Honored as a UNESCO Living Human Treasure in 2024, he continues his craft inside the Karagöz Museum in Çekirge, Bursa.
Master Şinasi painstakingly carves translucent figures from specially tanned camel and cattle rawhide using historic curved 'nevrekân' chisels. Stained with organic plant extracts and illuminated from behind fine white muslin, his puppets come to life through his singular voice acting across dozens of characters.
Workshop & Visiting Information
Explore the historic bazaars, khans, and cultural sites of Bursa where this tradition thrives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hayali Şinasi Çelikkol
Who is Hayali Şinasi Çelikkol and what craft does he/she practice?
Hayali Şinasi Çelikkol is a master artisan of Traditional Karagöz & Hacivat Shadow Puppetry & Leather Carving in Bursa. Producing works using traditional methods with 56 Years of Shadow Theater & Carving of experience.
Where is Hayali Şinasi Çelikkol's workshop and how can it be visited?
Hayali Şinasi Çelikkol's workshop is located at "Çekirge Cad. No:159 (Karagöz Müzesi & Sanat Evi), Osmangazi / Bursa". Visiting hours: Salı - Pazar: 09:30 - 17:30 (Pazartesi kapalı).
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