Beading&Babbling

1.

BEADING&BABBLING
(PLACIOM&BALTAJEM)
Haichuk Valeryia
Subat Lubov

2.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT
It’s a project that took place on July 6 and 7 in Lublin, Poland,
with the aim of preserving Belarusian traditions and teaching
the art of harliačka beading. Two master classes were held to
introduce women to Belarusian culture through the creation of
a traditional neck ornament. The project provided a creative
and comfortable space for learning, discussion, and cultural
exchange, sparking interest in Belarusian cultural heritage.

3.

PROJECT GOAL AND ITS IMPORTANCE
The main goal of the "Beading & Babbling" project was to
teach the traditional Belarusian art of harliačka beading and
preserve this cultural heritage. The project not only helped
participants master a unique crafting skill but also promoted
the importance of preserving and reviving Belarusian
traditions in modern times. By offering a creative and
interactive environment, the project fostered a deeper
connection to Belarusian culture and created an opportunity
for participants to explore their roots while strengthening
cultural ties across borders.

4.

PARTICIPANTS
The "Beading & Babbling" project gathered a total of 28
women, reflecting a strong interest in Belarusian culture and
traditional crafts. Most participants were students, with 23
young women under the age of 29, showing that the project
resonated particularly with the younger generation. The
majority of attendees were of Belarusian origin, with 26
participants. Additionally, the event embraced intercultural
exchange, as 1 Ukrainian and 1 Polish woman also took part.
This diversity highlighted the event's role not only in
preserving Belarusian traditions but also in fostering cultural
dialogue and inclusivity.

5.

MAIN OUTCOMES
• Handmade skill: participants learned the traditional Belarusian
technique of harlačka beading, gaining practical crafting skills;
• Cultural awareness: increased understanding of Belarusian
traditional costumes and heritage;
• Atmosphere of unity: the event fostered a supportive and
comfortable environment, encouraging open discussions on
emigration, adaptation, and cultural identity;
• Positive feedback: participants expressed high satisfaction, with
many requesting additional master classes due to the lack of
similar cultural activities;
• Intercultural dialogue: the involvement of Ukrainian and Polish
participants facilitated cultural exchange.

6.

LESSONS LEARNED
What worked?
Women-only environment: the event recreated the traditional atmosphere where our greatgrandmothers would gather in women's circles for crafting, enhancing the cultural immersion;
Cozy atmosphere: there was a warm and welcoming environment, with participants free to grab
snacks and tea at any time, making the experience even more enjoyable;
New connections: the event allowed participants to meet and connect with new, interesting
people, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
What didn’t work?
Target audience: the main audience for such events is primarily students, and it was challenging
to find participants since the event was held during the summer break. Many potential
attendees were unavailable, having traveled home or on vacation.
Improvements for next time?
Expand the range of master classes to include other traditional Belarusian crafts, such as
vycinanka (paper cutting art) and Belarusian straw spiders. This will deepen participants'
immersion in Belarusian craftsmanship and offer a broader exploration of the country's cultural
heritage.

7.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION!