Preserving a Nation’s Soul: Crimean Tatar Heritage Comes Alive at Purdue University

By Leviza Karashaysky

WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana — A unique exhibition “Crimea Heritage: Crimean Tatars in Masterpieces of Painting” opened on September 26 at Purdue University. Visitors were able to immerse themselves in the centuries-old history and rich culture of the Crimean Tatars – the indigenous people of Ukraine.
The exhibition, held at the John Martinson Honor College, offers visitors not only a visual but also a sensory journey into the world of Crimean Tatar culture. From demonstrations of creating traditional “Ornek” patterns to the opportunity to enjoy authentic flavors, the exhibition engages all the senses of the guests.

“We aimed to create a living, breathing exhibition of culture that has been an integral part of Crimea’s history for centuries,” say the exhibition curators Zera and Zarema Mustafaieva, Ukrainian researchers at Purdue University and presidents of the Crimean Tatar Foundation USA. “And judging by the visitors’ feedback, we have succeeded.”

Guests are particularly delighted by the opportunity to try traditional Crimean Tatar coffee and the famous Kurabiye cookies. “These treats are not just food, they’re part of our culture, passed down from generation to generation,” notes Zera Mustafaieva. “We’re glad that we can share this taste of history with our guests.”

The exhibition is not limited to only festive aspects of culture. As part of the event, the film “Haytarma” was shown, telling about the tragic events of the exile of Crimean Tatars in 1944. This film, whose title coincides with the name of a traditional Crimean Tatar dance (translated from Crimean Tatar as “Return”), represents a powerful artistic reflection on the historical trauma of the people.
In addition, the program included a lecture by Ukrainian scholars on the genocide and forced eviction of the indigenous Crimean Tatar people from Crimea in 1944. This lecture, part of the “Exile” course led by Dr. Muiris MacGiollabhui, provided historical context and deepened visitors’ understanding of the tragic history of the Crimean Tatar people.

“The combination of art exhibition, film screening, academic lecture, and traditional cuisine created a truly multifaceted approach to understanding the culture and history of the Crimean Tatars,” notes Purdue University philosophy professor Stacy Connaughton. “This is not just an exhibition, it’s a full-fledged educational experience that allows visitors to see the connection between past and present, between art, history, and everyday life.”

The “Crimea Heritage” exhibition is part of a broader initiative by Purdue University to promote cultural diversity and global understanding. In the context of contemporary discussions about indigenous rights and cultural heritage preservation, this exhibition serves as an important reminder of the value of each unique culture in the mosaic of world heritage.

For those who haven’t yet had the chance to visit the exhibition, there’s a last opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich world of Crimean Tatar culture. The “Crimea Heritage: Crimean Tatars in Masterpieces of Painting” exhibition is open for visits until October 3 at the John Martinson College of Purdue University. Admission is free.
“We invite everyone who hasn’t yet had the chance to visit the exhibition to do so in the next two days,” says Zarema Mustafaieva. “This is a unique opportunity not only to see but also to taste our culture. Come, try our coffee and kurabiye, and let us tell you the story of our people through art and traditions.”