Kemal Turmanidze's salon and workshop in Batumi is a place where Georgian crafts come to life

Kemal Turmanidze - the keeper of the traditions of Georgian wood carving

Kemal Turmanidze is a true master of his craft, having dedicated decades to studying, preserving and developing the art of wood carving. He grew up in a family of craftsmen and from childhood watched his ancestors work.

Inspired by traditional Georgian ornaments, he began to create unique carved items, combining his own ideas with ancient woodworking techniques.

His work became famous far beyond Georgia. Turmanidze's works adorn museums, temples and private collections not only in Georgia, but also in other countries.

"Wood carving is not just a craft. It is a language through which you can tell a story, convey emotions and show the beauty of nature," says the master.

His workshop, located on the territory of the Borjgalo Ethnographic Museum, has become not only a place of creativity, but also a training center, where he passes on his knowledge to young masters, helping to preserve and develop the traditions of Georgian wood carving.

What can you see in the salon-workshop of Kemal Turmanidze?

The workshop presents various types of products made by hand by the master.

🔹 Carved panels — artistic compositions depicting national motifs, historical scenes and mythological characters.

🔹 Wooden sculptures — figures of animals, people and abstract works, executed with filigree detailing.

🔹 Decorative elements for interiors — carved balconies, columns, doors and window frames, which traditionally decorate Georgian houses.

🔹 Traditional Georgian chests and furniture — chests, chairs, tables, cabinets and shelves decorated with carved patterns, made in an old style.

🔹 Household items — wooden spoons, trays, cutlery and decorative plates.

The main feature of this place is that you can see how these works of art are created. Visitors can watch the master at work, learn the secrets of wood processing and even try themselves as a carver.

Wood carving in Georgia is not just an artistic craft, but a real art with centuries-old traditions.

Turmanidze's workshop presents various carving techniques typical of the Georgian school:

🪵 👉 Relief carving - patterns are cut out on a flat surface, creating three-dimensional images.

🪵 👉 Deep carving - a technique in which images are literally "cut out" from wood, giving the works a special volumetric effect.

🪵 👉 Lace carving - the finest work, creating graceful, openwork patterns reminiscent of lace.

🪵 👉 Wood engraving - a technique for applying patterns using thin lines, reminiscent of a drawing on paper.

Turmanidze’s works are a unique combination of ancient traditions and modern wood processing technologies, which makes them not only a cultural value, but also sought-after interior items.

1. Is it possible to buy the master's works?

🛍️ Yes, many works can be bought directly in the workshop, and you can also order a custom product based on your sketch.

2. Are there master classes?

🪵 Yes, with advance booking you can take part in a wood carving master class and try to create your own pattern.

3. Do you need to register to visit?

📅 It is recommended to contact the workshop in advance, as Kemal Turmanidze is not always on site.

4. Is it possible to see the master at work?

🔨 Yes, visitors can watch the master at work in real time and learn the secrets of Georgian wood carving.

5. Are there tours in other languages?

🗣️ The main language of communication is Georgian, but tours in Russian and English are possible.

6. Is the place suitable for visiting with children?

👶 Yes, children will be interested in seeing how carved products are created, as well as trying themselves in the role of a master at a master class.