The leader of the embroidery workshop, Joanna Skiera, presented the participants with the oldest copies of Krajenski embroidery, dating back to the early 20th century, and discussed the colors and typical motifs. Characteristic of the pattern of Krajenski embroidery is the use of three colors - navy blue, blue and black - as well as shapes and motifs such as pomegranate fruit, lily, bell, poppy, ear of grain, grain, chaff, cornflower, forget-me-not, and passion flower stalks, tops and stamens. She presented traditional and current folk costumes of Krajna, as well as contemporary art with regional embroidery motifs - chasubles, murals, greeting cards and Krajna wings. Workshop participants were able to learn about materials for creating embroidery motifs, such as tambour and fabric, painting utensils for making embroidery designs on fabric, porcelain or wood. There was an opportunity for practical training in applying country designs on boards and cotton bags. Each lady took with her a bag and kitchen board with her own embroidery pattern.
During a break in the handiwork, the Song and Dance Ensemble "Krajna" under the direction of Dominika Dubiela, in a youthful five-member lineup with an accordionist, called in. After a short vocal emission training, the workshop participants perfected with "Krajna" the performance of four traditional songs, of which the most enthusiasm was unleashed by the song "Under the Green Oak," performed with elements of dance, or "with a bump."
The ladies of KGW Dąbrówka, led by Leokadia Ruhnke, took care of feeding everyone and decorating the dining table artistically, and the whole thing was overseen by Ewa Wiese, head of the Village Cultural Center in Dąbrówka. All the ladies finished their handiwork and singing with the conviction that they are equipped with the skills to promote the country's traditions in ever-widening circles, in their housewives' circles.
Text: Agnieszka Brodowska
Photo: Katarzyna Stalmierska
