We invite you to visit the exhibition “Wooden Distaffs: Lithuanian Traditions Reborn in Students’ Hands”, featuring works by students of the Object Conservation and Restoration Study Program at the Faculty of Arts and Education, Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution. The exhibition is displayed on the second floor of the library.
The exhibition presents student woodworking projects – not only masterfully recreated historical distaffs but also contemporary interpretations that reflect creative freedom and a personal perspective on cultural heritage. These works were created during craftsmanship classes, where students learned carving techniques, explored the properties of wood, and delved into traditional Lithuanian wood ornamentation.
In the past, the distaff was more than just a spinning tool – it was an essential part of Lithuanian traditions. Intricately carved distaffs often served as symbols of love or respect, given as gifts to loved ones. Each region of Lithuania had its own distinctive style, varying in shape, patterns, and ornamentation, reflecting folk art traditions and symbolic meanings. Today, distaffs are not only a part of folk art and cultural heritage but also a source of inspiration for artists. They are being rediscovered as examples of traditional craftsmanship, decorative interior elements, or symbolic artistic expressions.
Exhibition Participants: Miglė Andriuškevičiūtė, Liepa Auglytė, Irina Janušauskienė, Saulė Koženiauskaitė, Žymantas Mickevičius, Saulė Miščiukaitė, Jonas Muraška, Benita Ožalaitė, Evita Sabonaitytė, Emilė Valčiukaitė, Viktorija Vičiulytė, Smiltė Židonytė, Tadas Baukus, Julija Špakovaitė, Nelė Jurgelionienė.
Exhibition Curators: lecturers Rolandas Vičys and Aurelijus Blažinauskis, Faculty of Arts and Education, Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution.
Exhibition Venue: The Library and Centre of Scientific Communication (Pramonės pr. 22A, Kaunas), 2nd Floor.
Exhibition Dates: February 1, 2025 – March 31, 2025.