Meet folk artist and art creator Sigita Damanskiene
Sigita's works adorn the spaces of the Šiauliai District Tourism and Business Information Center (near the Hill of Crosses). They are admired not only by Lithuanians, but also by visitors from various corners of the world. "I was born (in 1967) and grew up in Šiauliai. I have been a folk artist since 2012. I joined the Lithuanian Folk Artists Union with textile works - knitted or crocheted clothes decorated with Baltic ornaments, whip ribbons.
- Since 2014, I have been singing in the only folk artist folklore ensemble in Lithuania, "Margulis".
- In 2015, he was awarded the title of Artist.
- In 2024. I started decorating traditional thatched gardens. In a relatively short time, my gardens have been exhibited at exhibitions of folk artists of Šiauliai city and county, and more than one author's exhibition of thatched gardens has been organized. I participated in the "Golden Crown" competition, and during the holidays, towns are decorated with my thatched gardens. I conduct educational programs.
- Since 2024, I have been a member of the association "Gardens of Heaven".
The gardens are rich in symbolic language: birds – carrying hope and dreams on their wings, angels – protection from the Heights, the sun – inner light and the warmth of those around them, witches – playfulness and frolic, the garden itself – strength and harmony, the light fluttering of the hanging garden – peace. In 2024, traditional thatched gardens were also included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Wherever the gardens are located – in Lithuania, England, Germany or anywhere else in the world, I am happy and grateful to everyone whose homes are decorated and spread peace by the traditional thatched gardens woven by my hands. "
Straw gardens – what are they?
Straw gardens are delicate geometric creations woven from dry grains (rye, wheat) or other plant fibers. Dried plants are strung on a thread, forming triangles and squares. These shapes were not chosen by chance: in ancient cultures, the triangle symbolized the spirit, and the square symbolized life. Their harmony forms a whole - a garden.
Straw gardens have other symbolic meanings as well. They have long been an important part of Lithuanian traditions, accompanying people from infancy. Previously, gardens were hung above the cradle, protecting the baby, and for holidays, Christmas or Easter, they were hung in the attic, creating a space of comfort, harmony and beauty. Gardens were also given to newlyweds as a symbol of good luck and harmony.
This tradition is alive forever – straw gardens can decorate anyone’s home. They are hung from the ceiling to react to the slightest air movement. As they rotate, the gardens radiate tranquility, and their modest structure subtly decorates the space.
Sigita Damanskiene
Phone: +370 685 774 58
Email: [email protected]
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