Hande KILIÇARSLAN

Prof. Dr. Hande KILIÇARSLAN is a full-time Professor in the Department of Traditional Turkish Handicrafts at Neşet Ertaş Faculty of Fine Arts, Ahi Evran University. She holds a PhD in Art and Design from Süleyman Demirel University (2014), a Master's in Handicrafts from Ankara University (2006), and a Bachelor's in Home Economics from Ankara University (2003).

Her research focuses on the preservation and analysis of Traditional Turkish Arts, particularly carpet-kilim weaving, historical fabric patterns, and natural dyeing techniques. She explores cultural continuity in textile traditions through ethnographic studies and interdisciplinary approaches linking material culture with social practices.

KILIÇARSLAN's publications extensively document regional weaving techniques across Anatolia, examining motifs, conservation methods, and socio-cultural contexts. Her work emphasizes museum studies, craft revitalization, and the intersection of traditional arts with contemporary media.

Awards:

• Best Paper/Presentation Award, Governors State University (USA), 2018

She has advised 14 graduate students on topics including regional weaving documentation, motif analysis, and cultural heritage applications. As project leader, she secured grants for:

• Natural dye research using Kırşehir flora (2021-2022)
• Revival of traditional toys through museum collections (2017)
• Onyx stone craftsmanship documentation (2016)

She coordinates international exchange programs (Erasmus, Mevlana) and leads quality assurance initiatives at faculty and university levels.