Dexterity, singleness of purpose, flight of the imagination and a great deal of knowledge of material properties – that is what it takes if you want to be a handicraft artisan. Handicrafts are among the oldest human activities that have come down to us as an expression of the human quest for beauty, creativity and self-expression.

Handicrafts are part of our cultural heritage, what is more they help bring tradition back to life. In this technological age handicrafts are a way to ease stress and to create something that is unique. With this message the regional chamber of crafts, Sofia, is launching an initiative called “Getting started in handicrafts” on 29 June, Petrovden, St. Peter’s Day, the professional day of artisans. Anyone who is curious to see how pottery is made using a potter’s wheel, or how a master coppersmith makes his wares can go to the lane at the entrance of the Regional History Museum, Sofia – 1, Banski sq., and themselves become part of the artisan process.

Handicrafts are a way to preserve our Bulgarian identity, Maria Nikolova from the regional chamber of crafts in Sofia. They are an important element of the Bulgarian intangible cultural heritage which ought to be preserved and popularized.

Our main idea is to put up artisan workshops presenting traditional arts and crafts, as well as the handicrafts that are now being revived. Every visitor to the Regional History Museum will be given an opportunity to be part of the process of making an artisan product with the help of master craftsmen – coppersmiths, potters, woodcarvers, furriers. We have invited an artisan to demonstrate how the famed Kalofer lace is made, dubbed the Bulgarian “Brussels” lace. The pottery wheel demonstrations are a major attraction at handicraft expositions. A skilled coppersmith will show how to make copper jewellery. There will also be leather engraving demonstrations, an ancient craft that has practically been lost in this country. We hope to celebrate St. Peter’s Day together with all people with an interest in culture and arts as reflected in handicrafts. Our idea is to actively popularize arts and crafts with artisan workshops in Sofia.

Many parents take their children to study some handicraft with an experienced artisan, there are chambers in different towns around the country which organize artisan demonstrations and expositions. There anyone can learn about arts and crafts straight “from the horse’s mouth”.

It is fulfilling to make something using one’s own hands. Arts and crafts are so appropriate for people with a free spirit. The way that artisans present their works demonstrates strength of character and an original view of the world. Handicrafts are an art, not just a form of self-expression. It is the mission of the National Chamber of Crafts to focus the efforts of all regional chambers for preserving and popularizing the whole array of arts and crafts.