Online Workshop
Create A Christmas Ornament

COMING SOON
Registration for this online workshop begins November 5th, 2024

Create a straw ornament (sodai)

Learn how to do traditional straw Christmas ornaments with skilled artisan and LTFAI member Gabrielle Valevicius.

At this workshop she will tell us about the history of these ornaments, show us how-to basics and guide us through the process of making 2 ornaments (a basic form and a star) to hang on a Christmas tree. This class is beginner-friendly: no prior experience is necessary.

Note: A detailed materials list will be sent to attendees prior to the workshop.

Cost: Members $25 | Non Members $35
Dates: November 16th, 2024
Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm EST
Registration begins: November 5 to November 15th
Language: English

Become a member & save $10.00 on this workshop & all future workshops.

Your Teacher is:

Gabrielle Valevicius

Gabrielle was inspired by her Lithuanian heritage to explore different forms of folk art, such as straw art (šiaudinukai), paper cutting (karpinai) and traditional egg painting (margučiai). For LTFAI she has hosted many šiaudinukai and sodai workshops as well as traditional karpinai workshops.

Gabrielle makes her home in Canada.

Join her this November as she presents this class LIVE ONLINE to non-members and members of LTFAI.

What is Sodai?

In Lithuania, Sodai refers to traditional straw gardens, an intricate form of folk art that involves creating geometric ornaments from straw. These ornaments, often resembling chandeliers, are considered symbols of prosperity and were historically used to decorate homes during weddings, holidays, and other significant events. The craft is deeply symbolic, with its geometric shapes representing harmony and balance, and it holds spiritual significance for Lithuanians.

Sodai were recognized by UNESCO in 2023 as part of Lithuania’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting their cultural and historical importance. The practice, rooted in ancient traditions, involves precise craftsmanship and creativity, and it remains a living tradition today, with artisans continuing to innovate while preserving the original techniques

Register for this workshop
Live Online November 1st, 2024
1pm – 3pm EST | Non-members: $35.00 | Members $25.00

Donna Druchunas Bio

An artisan specializing in knitting. She taught a knitting workshop at the LTFAI AGM several years ago and fell in love with the organization. Not only is she a prolific author of knitting books, with “The Art of Lithuanian Knitting” under her belt, but she’s also the creative genius behind our social media presence.

Donna weaves her magic into our online world, managing the LTFAI Facebook page with finesse. Donna has also enlightened us with her workshops and riveting LTFAI Talks.

Past LTFAI.org Talks

Here’s what you have missed. Get updates of upcoming events. Sign up for our email newsletter.

Traditional Crosses in Lithuania:
Lithuania is sometimes called the land of crosses. Crosses and unique pillar shrines with various sculptures have been an integral part of the Lithuanian landscape for several hundred years. They represent not only religious symbolism but national identity especially in times of repression. We will look at and discuss the amazing wooden carving and iron work of this important folk art and touch on the well known Kryziu Kalnas (Hill of Crosses) site in Lithuania.

Wool (Vilna):
Wool Crafts in Lithuania: Although linen features prominently in Lithuanian folktales and folk songs, we rarely hear about wool. However in the cold climate working with wool was an integral part of daily life forrural villagers in Lithuania. Small farms were self-sufficient; little or no money was needed to supplement the household’s home production. All the women and girls in a family spun, wove, knitted, and felted wool to create all of the households woolens.

Easter Palms (Verbos)
History and Significance of Verbos in Lithuanian Life: Palm Sunday is an important part of the Easter tradition. Learn about the history of decorated palms and get to know the customs and decorative techniques specific to Lithuania. (Please note, this is not a hands-on workshop.)

Black Ceramics (Juoda Keramica)
History and use of black ceramics in Lithuania: The tradition of black ceramics has been documented in Lithuania for centuries. Although eventually falling out of favour due to other pottery techniques, Lithuania is one of the few places that still make this beautiful pottery. Learn about the history, techniques and artistry of black ceramics.

Amber (Gintaras)
Gintaras – Our Golden Heritage: Gintaras, or Amber, has been important to Lithuanians and Baltic people for millennia. Important in terms of culture, art and symbolism. Learn about various aspects of Amber to bring you to a new and better understanding and appreciation of this beautiful “golden stone”.

Easter Eggs (Marguciai)
History and Significance of Easter Eggs in Lithuanian Life: The egg has long been seen as a symbol of fertility and life. Learn about the role of decorated eggs in ancient and modern times. Get to know the customs and decorative techniques specific to Lithuania.

What is an LTFAI talk?

We are excited to launch our online LTFAI Talks. We hope to have a series of talks on topics that are relevant to Lithuanian folk art. These are lectures, not workshops, that will provide interesting information for anyone interested in folk art.

They will be from a half hour to a full hour in length with time for discussion at the end.

Each LTFAI Talk is free but you have to register to get an invitation to the session.

Giles Bugailiskis Bio

Raised in the Lithuanian community in Hamilton, Ontario. He moved to Winnipeg, Manitoba, to attend university and was a long-time board member of the Lithuanian Canadian Community there and now serves as the resource person for inquiries about the Lithuanians in Manitoba. Giles has over 30 years of experience in municipal heritage conservation planning and public outreach, having retired as the City of Winnipeg’s Senior Planner for Heritage. He is also a current member of the LTFAI Board.

Ramune Jonaitis Bio

Ramune is a translator and editor, who worked with the Canadian Lithuanian Weekly Tėviškės žiburiai as managing editor for over 20 years.

She is also an artisan who makes mosaics and jewellery using Lithuanian motifs and amber. She is a long time member of LTFAI and has recently served on our board. She learned tapestry-weaving from Aldona Vaitonienė, a master weaver in Toronto, Canada.

Testimonials: My first ever tapestry. I am an artist so I did a little extra with the beads and wire cord to hang. It reminds me of a dress so I had fun with that thought. 😉

I think you did an excellent job with the workshop, especially for those of us with no experience weaving. I have already ordered yarn. The colors in this piece was whatever my friend gave me as I was not able to go out shopping.

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