Johann Nikadimus

Embroiderer

©Olga Ludvig

A modern master of a Russian tradition

Johann changed career twice before becoming an artisan
He makes sumptuous historical Russian headdresses
It takes several months to make each kokoshnik

The life of Johann Nikadimus has taken a few impressive twists and turns. A native of Kazan, he moved to Moscow after obtaining his drama school diploma and worked in fashion retail. As a hobby, he participated in a folk music album recording and the band used a picture of an ancient kokoshnik on the cover. In researching this image, Johann became enchanted with the craft of making these traditional Russian headdresses and started looking for a master to teach him. Now he is one of a handful of artisans who know how to make them. Using ancient techniques including goldwork, pearl embroidery and handstitching, Johann creates fabulous replicas of this historical headwear. In 2022 Johann relocated to Serbia and continues to practise his craft there.

Interview

Who did you learn from?: I studied with Yarina Nikolayeva, one of the finest goldwork artisans in Russia, the head of the Tausen folk ensemble and the Drevo Creative Studio in Moscow. She meticulously taught me the demanding techniques, the captivating history, what materials could be used and where to find them.
What was the first kokoshnik you made?: My first creation was a headdress from the Arkhangelsk province. It was in 2014. I was inspired by Russian art, especially Ivan Bilibin's Russian fairytale illustrations, as well as paintings by Viktor Vasnetsov and Konstantin Makovsky.
There are very different styles of kokoshniks...: The variety was immense. Each province of Russia had its own styles. The invention of the kokoshnik was originally influenced by cattle worship. This headdress was made only for married women to wear – and only on holidays – and it had to fully cover the hair. The rest was up to local artisans to design.
How did you get into making tiaras?: I love weddings and gala parties – these are the moments when ordinary life turns into a fairy tale, when the doors to another reality open. My logo is the first letter of my name and it looks like a key – a key to new magic.

Johann Nikadimus is a master artisan: he began his career in 2014 and he started teaching in 2016