Page 131 - EMPIRIA 2024

JOYFUL EXPLORATION I PAROS

Loom Legacy

Handmade delights breathe new life
The family loom has been
into the traditional Paros art of weaving. in existence for centuries,
passed down through
generations in Marigoula's
Marigoula Anousaki-Fisilani discusses family. She continues
this tradition and craft by
her techniques and creative journey. creating accessories from
recyclable materials.

Inter view Georgia Nikolina

As a self-taught artist, Marigoula magazines, I predominantly design
Anousaki-Fisilani uses her loom to my pieces by experimenting with
blend traditional weaving techniques fabrics. This approach allows me to
with modern designs for bags and craft elegant handbags and other
household items. items, enhancing traditional weaving
How does living on a Greek island with contemporary aesthetics. The
influence the use of a traditional loom, paired with innovative design,
technique like weaving? Did it offers endless possibilities.
help you improve and find new How long does it take to complete
inspiration? a handmade piece? What items do
The serene environment and the rich you create?
heritage of Paros, where I reside The time required varies based on
in a 16th-century house that has factors like the type of thread and
witnessed 20 generations, deeply the duration one can comfortably
inspire my work. My grandmothers work, as weaving can strain the back.
and great-grandmothers, like all For example, weaving a meter of
women on Paros, used the loom. fabric might take four hours or more,
Over the past decade, my skills have depending on the thread's thickness. "Τhe loom is often great
been significantly refined. Initially My creations include shoulder bags,
indifferent to the loom, I found my purses, clutch bags, large bags, bath when something’s bothering you.
passion for it upon returning home mats, baskets, cushions, and more—
to care for my mother. Since then, essentially anything that comes to mind. This work helps you forget."
weaving has become my life's work, What keeps you motivated and
filling me with joy and eagerness to creatively inspired?
create. The tranquility and absence of The appreciation and admiration
stress here are ideal for my creativity. from people who see and love my
The more I weave, the more ideas work are incredibly motivating. This
Marigoula Anousaki at her emerge, allowing my craft to evolve positive feedback fuels my passion.
family home in Marpissa.
After all, the island of Paros continuously. Previously, I only worked at our family
is her whole life. Do fashion trends influence your restaurant, but now weaving is both
handmade creations? How do you my profession and my cherished
balance tradition with contemporary hobby. Maintaining the right mindset
style? is crucial for effective creativity; it’s
I source fabrics in modern colors and a therapeutic activity that helps me
integrate them into my creations. focus and find solace, especially
Although I draw inspiration from when working with vibrant colors. •

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