Women in Bulgarian folk crafts

published on 11/15/11 11:54 AM

Photo: personal archive

Before the onset of the industrial age in Bulgaria, most household items were made by skilful master craftsmen. In smaller and bigger workshops, with the help of implements, many of which are already unknown, people produced clothing fabrics, woolen braids for clothing decoration, carpets, cookware, etc. Most crafts, such as coppersmithing, were considered a man's vocation. Once, coppersmiths would craft more than 30 kinds of cookware, such as large baking tins, saucepans, frying pans, spoons, you name it. Although coppersmithing was considered a man's art, a few Bulgarian ladies have found their true vocation in it, too. So for example, artisan Ms. Yolanta Tsenova says she has inherited the craft from her ancestors. Her father was a self-taught master. He taught her mother the art, while Yolanta was growing up in the family workshop, where she started helping her parents as a child. After studying glass art and ceramics, she continued the family tradition. She has got her own business for 19 years now. Her works can be seen in different places across Bulgaria.

“Coppersmithing has also been a dream of mine”, Yolanta told a Radio Bulgaria reporter. “I liked to see my parents being always together, enjoying sort of a family union. In a family like mine, you're always given attention. I'm very happy that my daughter is following in my footsteps, and for a couple of months now, she's been working in my company. In times of crisis, a coppersmith's job is somewhat more insecure , but it brings satisfaction. Today, coppersmithing isn't what is was like back in the past. I try to keep the old technical know-how, while making practical items. In recent years, copper items are not likely to be seen in contemporary homes. It is our lifestyle that predetermines this trend. Very few people prepare their coffee in copper Turkish coffee pots. Likewise, few women cook banitsas and kozunaks in copper tins. This is how, the practical side of coppersmithing is exiting our daily lives”, says somewhat nostalgically Yolanta Tsenova.

Although Yolanta's works are not commonly used in our households, they are true works of art. In her words, each ornament on her copper decorative plates has got its own story and message. Each of her plates shine with sun depictions. Many depict floral elements, which are typical of wood carving. As a student Yolanta did woodcarving, which is the reason why she loves using elements typical of woodcarving in her metal art. Except copper plates, original gift packaging and metal pictures, Yolanta makes cards with metal decorations. The women dedicated to copper art in Bulgaria are a rarity, indeed, but there are many more who invest their talent and emotions in preserving other folk crafts. We bring you Anna Kirilova, coordinator of the Balkan Union of Women in Crafts.

“In my opinion, ladies have a strong presence in the Bulgarian folk crafts. This regards the other Balkan countries, too”, says Ms. Kirilova. “We’re talking about crafts such as embroidery, ceramics, textile, knitting, doll making, etc. The majority of women artists, just like Yolanta, are seeking ways to combine the old know-how with the new aesthetic market demands. Take for example weaver Penka Peneva from the town of Gabrovo. She’s introduced many aesthetic changes to her works. She’s preserved typical Bulgarian patterns which she interweaves into rugs and other decorative fabrics. At the same time, she makes things for German and other clients, using somewhat more pastel colours and simple patterns. Also, a great deal of women create jewellery. They try to make contemporary designs that could meet the demands of international markets more easily. Bulgarian jewellers make plain and elegant works that bear typical Bulgarian features."

The Balkan Union of Women in Crafts was established in 2009. Its president is Bulgarian Jasmina Ivanova. The organization aims to preserve the old folk crafts of the Balkan countries while supporting the businesses of women artists who try to combine traditional techniques and elements with somewhat more modern trends. In the words of Ms. Kirilova, the Union is a meeting ground for exchange of opinions, experience and ideas as well as for various trainings.

English version: Vyara Popova
Photos: Provided by Yolanta Tsenova

По публикацията работи: Lina Ivanova

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Women in Bulgarian folk crafts

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