Biye Carpet

The name BIYE derives from an ancient Khotanese word meaning “weaver.” The project focuses on Hotan’s handwoven carpet tradition, a craft rooted in the history of the Silk Road. Made primarily from locally sourced wool and woven by hand using the Senneh knot, Hotan carpets are distinguished by their dense structure, distinctive patterns, and vivid use of colour.

Initiated by Gaotai Gallery, the BIYE Artist Collaboration Project brings contemporary artists together with local workshops in Hotan. Through field research, pattern translation, material testing, and months of handweaving, artists’ works are transformed into carpets—preserving the integrity of traditional craftsmanship while exploring new forms of expression in a contemporary context.