Benefitting country(ies): Belarus

Overview:

To be implemented by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Belarus, this thirty-six-month project aims to safeguard and spread awareness of the negliubka textile tradition, a traditional weaving and embroidery practice observed exclusively by women. In addition to spreading awareness about negliubka and strengthening regional identity, the project will focus on disseminating practical knowledge about the element. It will be implemented in the Gomel region and will involve identifying and supporting existing weaving centres through in-kind support and training, creating opportunities for remote learning of the traditional hand-weaving techniques, conducting field research, and developing a publication on the different kinds of weaving patterns and techniques. The project will also involve organizing a festival and summer school programme, establishing an intangible cultural heritage centre, and coordinating professional development seminars. Beyond contributing to the viability of the negliubka textile tradition, this project is expected to increase the creative and socio-economic potential of local communities while motivating youth to take part in the practice. It will also increase the popularity of the tradition and its inclusion in formal and informal education systems while attracting international attention and supporting the region’s conservation plan and sustainable development strategy.

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