Özcan Abacı: Master of Traditional Talika Craft in Edirne, Turkey

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Özcan Abacı working on a traditional small scale talika miniature in his workshop in Edirne, Turkey
Özcan Abacı in his Edirne workshop, preserving the traditional talika craft through detailed wooden miniatures.

Özcan Abacı is one of the last masters preserving the traditional talika craft in Edirne. Through his detailed 1/5 scale wooden miniatures of talikas, faytons, and agricultural tools, he keeps the memory of traditional Anatolian transport culture alive.

Background

Özcan Abacı was born in Geçkinli village of Edirne, in 1966. He developed an interest in woodworking and handicrafts, and since 1990 has focused on improving his skills in traditional talika making, a craft rooted in the cultural heritage of his region.

Video showing Özcan Abacı working on a Talika

Workshop and Craft

In 1996, he established his own workshop, where he produces 1/5 scale wooden miniatures of talikas and faytons, staying true to their original structure and design. Each model is carefully constructed using wood and traditional techniques. A single piece may consist of more than 1,000 individual parts and can take around one month to complete.

A demonstration of master craftsman Özcan Abacı working in his Edirne workshop, carefully producing wooden wheels for a traditional 1/5 scale talika miniature, preserving Anatolian carriage-making heritage.

Cultural Role

Abacı continues his work with the aim of transferring this cultural heritage to future generations. By recreating historical transportation vehicles in miniature form, he preserves not only objects, but also the knowledge and craftsmanship behind them.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan presenting the “Living Human Treasure of Turkey” award to Özcan Abacı in an official ceremony in Turkey
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan awards Özcan Abacı the “Living Human Treasure of Turkey” title in recognition of his contribution to preserving traditional talika craftsmanship.

Recognition

He was awarded the title of “Living Human Treasure of Turkey” in 2024 for his contribution to the tradition of talikacılık. He is also recognized as a cultural heritage bearer supported by the Ministry of Culture.

Exhibitions and Public Work

Abacı has participated in national and international festivals, fairs, and exhibitions, where he has introduced talika craftsmanship to wider audiences. His works have also been displayed at academic events, including symposiums organized by Trakya University.

Challenge of Continuity

One of the main challenges he faces today is the lack of apprentices. Abacı has expressed his intention to train young people and open courses to ensure the continuation of this craft.

Conclusion

Today, Özcan Abacı’s work represents one of the few remaining links between traditional Anatolian transportation culture and contemporary craftsmanship, making his contribution significant for the preservation of intangible cultural heritage.

→ Learn more about the tradition: Talika in Turkey

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