„Gift with meaning“ – A blend of the traditions and cultures of Serbia and BIH

Original handmade crafts adorned with motifs of beg’s patterns and sofra, which nurture the symbolism of the cultural identity of Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the closeness of the two peoples, were presented today at an exhibition titled "Gift with Meaning," held at the "Lazar Vozarević" gallery in Sremska Mitrovica.

The exhibition was organized by NALED and Ethno Network, in partnership with the Bosnian Handicrafts Association, through the project "Together for Cultural Tourism - Cross-Border Cooperation for Better Socio-Economic Development and the Preservation of Traditional Crafts," which is being implemented with the support of the EU. The pieces created by tradition bearers gathered in the BH Crafts and Ethno Network associations are representative business gifts and authentic tourist products of the border area.

Tatjana Macura, the Minister without Portfolio responsible for gender equality, preventing violence against women, and the economic and political empowerment of women, stated at the exhibition opening that the Government of the Republic of Serbia supports the efforts of Ethno Network and BH Crafts to economically empower and promote women, emphasizing that the work of both associations will "connect two countries through the preservation of cultural heritage, alongside the bridges that unite us."

The synergy of the two peoples through shared crafts was also highlighted by the Mayor of Sremska Mitrovica, Branislav Nedimović, who added that this is a way to preserve community. He thanked the women gathered in the BH Crafts and Ethno Network associations whose products represent what we have in common and what connects us, as they embody the symbolism of the cultural heritage of both countries.

Nenad Ivanišević, Provincial Secretary for Economy and Tourism, emphasizing the multiple significance of preserving traditional crafts, stated that the Provincial Government has invested more than 15 million dinars to support this activity, with significant funds also planned for the next year. "Through traditional crafts and such pieces, we provide an anchor that further binds people to these regions," Ivanišević said.

The European Union is particularly proud to support at least 60 women engaged in traditional crafts from 18 municipalities in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina through this project, said Richard Maša, Head of the Operations Section of the EU Delegation, adding that the project is a good example of cooperation in addressing common challenges and seizing opportunities for growth and development. "By investing in public health, employment, and cultural heritage, this program creates stronger ties among neighboring peoples," he said.

A special contribution to the preservation of tradition and cultural heritage in both countries is made by the British Ambassador Edward Ferguson and his wife. Ferguson, who was previously the ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, stated that the diplomatic corps is excited about the handicrafts from this region. "The goal is to support women in gaining empowerment and to transfer knowledge in order to preserve Balkan traditions," he said.

The presidents of the two associations, Ethno Network and BH Crafts, Violeta Jovanović and Lejla Radončić, expressed their gratitude to the partners and called on officials, the diplomatic corps, and responsible businesses to continue providing support to women artisans of traditional crafts by purchasing authentic products with meaning and purpose, allowing them to sustain their income while preserving tradition.

The products presented today are decorated with motifs of beg’s patterns and sofra. Beg’s pattern features ornaments from Petrovačko kilim that correspond with the patterns of Pirot and Sjenica-Pešter kilims. The sofra, as a universally present element, carries the noble symbolism of gathering around the table, prosperity, and maintaining family ties and values. Beg’s pattern, as a stylized artistic element and a combination of various ornaments, has been particularly nurtured in Bosanski Petrovac, once also known as Pirot for its handwoven kilims.

It is worth noting that the "Together for Cultural Tourism" project has been implemented since March last year in the border areas of Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, across 18 municipalities and cities. The project aims to socio-economically empower women and promote handicrafts as tourist products in these countries. NALED, in cooperation with Ethno Network and Bosnian Handicrafts, implements the project, which is co-financed by the European Union through the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA II) under the Serbia - Bosnia and Herzegovina Cross-border Cooperation Program 2014-2020.