Revealing a complex and fascinating universe, the symbols of traditional art are an important starting point in deciphering the hidden meanings that the folk culture of ancestral society carried within. Symbols such as horse and rider, fir needles -sign of manhood and vitality-, the tree of life, vines, flower pots and more are very common in Neamţ area and often appear on highly appreciated pieces, along with other with geometrical patterns and vivid natural colors. What is more, these symbols are to be found in folk literature and plastic arts, even in mathematics. Needlework, knitting, and crocheting are still a popular pastime for the women, young and old, in the village.

Women, while making with their own hand most of the pieces of clothing, ensure their diversity and originality today, as in times past. They have borrowed patterns and scenery, but always add their own mark to each piece of clothing, giving it the original design, thus creating the interesting local specificity.

Artisans, past and present, have contributed to the ever richer folk art in Neamţ County, encoding in wood, clay, leather, weaving and needlework, their spiritual wealth in diverse artistic forms and styles.

Maintaining a conservative character, by means of rules and canons kept in community awareness, the villagers have passed on down the generations the encoded and extremely rich language of folk art. The simple shapes and the balanced proportions, the sensible layout and decorations, the geometrical style of representations, the discrete and harmonious colours always impress the beholder.

We hereby invite you to discover some of the workshops of renowned craftsmen from Neamț County, where the photos below were taken:

All photos from our gallery were captured as part of “Discover Neamţ Land!” Photography Event, which took place between December 18 to 22, 2019. The tourism promotion project was initiated and integrally financed by Neamţ County Council.

Vasile Ciocârlan – Ștefan cel Mare Commune (masks, weaving, knitting, children’s crafts club) – 0749.81.15.89

Marinica Todici – Pipirig Commune – “Nemțeanca” Traditional Crafts Association 0742.686.758