Russian Folk Traditions Come Alive

Valentine is from the region of Khabarovsk. 

She is a rare seamstress, because she can make clothes out of fish skin.

For example, here's an apron or even smock.

This work took her a year, but the labor was justified because it helps to keep alive the nearly extinct tradition of her ancestors - Nanai people.

Besides, now such products can be profitable sold in Moscow, as the XI fair of folk crafts of Russia "Rook. Winter's Tale - 2011" was opened in the capital.

[Valentine Beldy, Participant in the Exhibition]: 

"Here are beautiful scales - it is a skin of   “zheltoschek”. And here at the bottom there is a piece of whale skin."

The "Rook" is attended by over 900 exhibitors from 62 regions. 

Products that are presented here by best Russian masters are the best works of art.

It seems that even famous designers get inspiration here.

[Valentin Yudashkin, Designer]: 

"The show creates a fantastic atmosphere, the atmosphere of Christmas, and I would be happy if many Muscovites have time for this show and get to know the real Russian culture."

By the way, it is not difficult to select a gift for fans of arts and crafts here. For example, feather and “pavlovopasadskie” scarves are popular today as before.

Moreover, some people make clothes from them.

Such a bright outfit can be seen from far away and it seems that the exhibition visitors appreciated this.

[Jana Shishkova, Visitor to Exhibition]: 

"In everyday life, because in the gray days Moscow is monotonal and you can improve your mood with these clothes. Just put it on. They are sunny and smiling. "

And here are other outfits, which elevates the mood. They were worn in the second half of XIX century in Voronezh.

Here is the festive female costume: embroidered shirt, skirt called Paneva, apron.

The decoration on the chest is cold Garus and the one in the back is Mohr.

Here are handmade lace, folk costumes, ethnic design products and many many other things.

The exhibition also represent Russian centers of folk art.

NTD, Moscow, Russia