ΕRASMUS +Living Art Art of Living

ART BASED ON LOCAL TRADITIONS

 Throughout history, art and culture of various kinds and forms have been part of the evolution of our societies. Festivals, handicrafts, food and songs are bringing stories and knowledge regarding the links between humans and nature, in and between generations, and are vital for the feeling of belonging amongst people around the planet.

Art has a unique possibility to capture change, simultaneously as it impacts the formation and development of societies and the people living there. It has a potential to perform and convey messages, ideas, and expressions where words fall short. It can connect directly to people´s hearts and body, sometimes more than to the mind, which enables art to shift mindsets in a more profound way than other forms of communication.

Art and culture for many people in the world are also intimately linked to spiritual belief systems, including a locally based understanding of the relationships between nature, humans, and deities.

Art and cultural expressions can be in the form of theatre, literature, painting, sculpture, poetry, music, dance, architecture, storytelling, spirituality and rituals.

Handicrafts:

Handicrafts have been in existence since the early days of humanity. At first, they were simply necessary objects that were crafted such as shelters and coverings. These were later developed and improved according to need and environmental conditions, eventually becoming “traditional” and accepted as an art form that captures the artistic sense, feelings and cultural characteristics of a society.

An example of a country with a rich tradition of handicrafts is Turkey. Traditional Turkish handicrafts capture the values and cultural heritage of the various civilisations that have passed through that part oof the world.

Traditional handicrafts include carpet making, rug making cloth weaving, writing, tile making, ceramics and pottery, embroidery, leather manufacture, musical instrument making, masonry, copper work, basket making, saddle making, felt making, weaving, woodwork, card making etc.

Weaving materials in traditional Turkish handicraft consists of wool, mohair, cotton, bristles and silk. Turkish carpets are among the most luxurious items showcased in any market, be it local or international. While Turkish and Kashmiri carpets are a part of the cultural heritage in both regions, they also adorn houses and religious sanctuaries all around the world.

Resources:

25 artists keeping traditional techniques alive: https://www.complex.com/pigeons-and-planes/2020/03/sevdaliza-essay-life-is-art

16 Satisfying art techniques from around the world

https://www.complex.com/pigeons-and-planes/2020/03/sevdaliza-essay-life-is-art

https://kellyeimwrapped.weebly.com/traditional-vs-contemporary.html