A living thread of traditions. Artisans of the Lida District Center of Culture and Folk Art revive the most complex artistic patterns in the style of white patterned weaving

Artisans try to preserve the traditions of hand weaving.A huge loom in the hall, looking like a museum one (from the abundance of exclusive products - author's note), not just decorate the room. Weavers of the Department of Crafts and Traditional Culture ValentynaSilvanovich and MariyaShilkovskaya spend a lot of time at it, perfecting their skills and reviving the patterns of half-forgotten authentic art.

- The soul of the Belarusian people is also embodied in its arts and crafts, says Valentina. - It's almost impossible to find even great-grandmothers who could show you how to tuck the loom and weave. We are trying to preserve hand weaving and become a link between the past and the present.

Masters scrupulously studied the patterns and weaves on goods inherited from their ancestors, mastered the white patterned weaving, common in the Lida region, and relied on it. A collection of folk costumes woven by weavers' golden hands caused a rapture! It was exhibited even in the Palace of Independence. And their other products always stand out at all kinds of exhibitions and festivals.

Valentina Silvanovich is a teacher by training and joined the center of culture in 2012. Having worked as a seamstress for several years, she had the opportunity to become a student of weaver Evgeni Markievich and his follower Daria Matashuk, who were the first in Lida to revive the ancient craft.

- I was fascinated by it, says Valentina. - I learned to weave quickly, and I have been doing my favorite thing for eight years now. It is a joy when you see the result of my labor. I weave towels, bedspreads, mats and belts, but I especially like to try something new. I also learn new techniques.