Weaving threads with love
- The first object Tijana made was a macramé tapestry
- Weaving connects her with her people and heritage
- She considers craftspeople – and those who buy from them – heroes
Drawn to macramé, Tijana Hojan Vukić was compelled to discover her own talent. This self-taught craftswoman from Vojvodina wanted to buy a tapestry for herself, and when she didn’t find one – she decided to make it herself. That’s how her story starts: at home, with a baby, discovering her new creative self. Tijana had always been good with her hands, doing different handicrafts, researching materials, colours and textures. When she first started her creative pursuits, she was lucky to join a rising global trend in tapestry making, and today she has a charming little studio. “The techniques I use are very old and weaving is deeply etched in the history of my people.” She points out that macramé, for example, cannot ever be replicated by a machine. It’s always made by hand.
INTERVIEW
Weaving was always used in this area. I remember my grandmother telling me how her mother wove hemp from which they made clothes. There is almost no old house that does not have an old loom somewhere on the property. Along with filling ones wardrobe, weaving was used to make decorative items and carpets.
I am in love with nature – it is an inexhaustible source of inspiration for me. I think every work is in some way connected to nature. So, I try to pass on my love to others, and to draw attention to how grateful we should be for our beautiful planet.
When I started out, I made almost no sales. I had tried to adapt to what I thought the market wanted. I made things I thought would please others. It didn't fit well with me, and I didn't make many sales. When I returned to trusting myself, people started showing more and more interest. I think they recognised my labour of love.
Of course. I think all crafts are in danger. Most people are not aware of the consequences of over consumption. I often like to say that by buying products from small craftspeople, you are not only helping a real person and family, or even families, but you are also helping yourself.
