Handmade creations
The concept of art is associated with creation and aesthetics. Arts such as silversmithing, pottery, weaving, knitting belong to the family of crafts. Handmade creations combine knowledge and traditional techniques with modern aesthetics to produce functional, useful products and serve practical needs. Local artisans have a two-way relationship with the area in which they live. They are influenced by it and, at the same time, they affect it.
We could say that the needs of society, as well as the natural environment, inspire the mind to create. On the other hand, local artisans offer high quality handmade products with the signature of uniqueness. This thought leads to two questions: Are there such artisans in our area? What do they stand for?
Crafts in our area
In this article we will have the opportunity to get to know local artisans and their handmade creations better. Creations that go beyond the concept of mass production. Objects designed in detail and made with the “energy” of their creators.
Weaving
Eleni Pavlou at the Ergani workshop creates a wide variety of woven and organizes creative workshops. She says: “From the creator’s point of view, any art, traditional or not, is a way of expression. In terms of aesthetics, I do not consider woven artifacts as museum pieces. They are adapted to the needs of our days and to the aesthetics of the people who ask for them. Of course, in the period we are going through, with the health crisis, there is no contact with customers. This, however, gave us time and calmness to reconsider the creative part. We set new goals and find a way out to the online presence.”
Knitting
In an imaginative way, Zefi Mitropoulou turns the thread into dolls, the Lalula dolls, for every taste. She tells us: “Knitting may be a traditional craft, but I make up-to-date, modern dolls. Also, seasonal; for Christmas, Easter. Especially now, during the lockdown, I spend my time pleasantly, it gives me satisfaction. It’s difficult to give them away, because the shops are closed, but I use the internet and word of mouth.”
Wood carving
George Samaras gives shape to wood with decorative and useful creations. He tells us: “Initially it started as a hobby. I am not a professional. I participated in exhibitions and festivals. I create the plain, the old, the simple, with natural materials and closer to man. Useful and decorative wooden objects. But the decorative is also useful, since it pleases the eye. Now, of course, during the lockdown, everything has been postponed.”
Silversmithing-jewelry making
Katerina Karoumba creates handmade jewelry at the Artichaut store. Compositions that combine metal, thread, fabric and more. Jewelry with color and imagination for every age and taste.
The handmade creations of Marina Karababa, Marineros jewelery, include metal, bead, wood, thread and leather. What does she say? “It is not a profession. For me it is psychotherapy. I adapt to fashion and new technology, trying to create something innovative. I give everything I make through my social contacts. Now, of course, in this period of isolation, I cannot function as before.”
The intention of Katheti is to highlight all these activities that contribute to the local “color”. In a versatile approach, Katheti has presented local visual artists, books with a local flavor, as well as local products. The content of the article will be constantly enriched.
