A photographic series focuseD on the craftsmanship involved in creating traditional hats and shoes, essential components of Albanian traditional dance costumes.
The objective is to highlight the significance of preserving traditional costumes, which have gradually lost their importance over time. The series begins in the workshop of two skilled artisans, a father and son, who have inherited this art form for generations in Kruja, Albania.
The intricate process of making the "Qeleshe" (a type of hat) involves over 10 delicate steps. It starts with obtaining high-quality sheep wool, which undergoes meticulous cleaning and washing. The material is then spread using a traditional arc-shaped tool and compressed through a process called "selitje." Shaping is achieved manually by immersing it in warm water and soap until the desired size is attained, followed by placing it in a wooden mold.
These molds, originating from various regions of Albania, are ancient and original in design. In addition to the hats, the slippers are also crafted using the "shajak" technique, requiring more than two hours of meticulous hand-sewn work, including attaching the leather sole.
Location: Krujë, Albania
Place: Old Bazar, Qeleshe Punues Hyseni
Date: 04/01/2023
Place: Old Bazar, Qeleshe Punues Hyseni
Date: 04/01/2023
