Learns and teaches others

In the old Inkūnai village, on a hill, in a wooden granary with a thatched roof, operates the ceramics workshop "Amatų kalnelis" (Crafts Hill), run by ceramist Renata Umbrasienė. Her unique works are made using the so-called "sourdough ceramics" method, whose roots date back to the 15th-16th centuries.

"I've been kneading clay for perhaps two decades," said the ceramist, who holds a National Heritage certificate, with a smile, "but I only started working seriously about 5 years ago. Especially since for me it was, and one could say still is, a meaningful way to spend my free time."

In 2004, the woman visited Inkūnai and, as she herself said, this place enchanted her. She bought an almost ruined, devastated house, rebuilt it, and then a few more homestead buildings appeared with reed and straw roofs that perfectly suited the area. "I am almost a local," the ceramist noted, "because I spend 3-4 days a week here."

The hostess of "Amatų kalnelis" not only introduces guests to one of the world's oldest crafts but also teaches them how to make a bowl or a whistle. The clay products are fired in an outdoor kiln.

R. Umbrasienė stated that she does not strive to exhibit her works in exhibitions but is happy when someone likes her works, because they are made with the warmth of hands and heart. "I learn myself and I teach others," said the ceramist.

Article source: https://www.anyksta.lt/mokosi-ir-moko-kitus/#google_vignette