As the snow blankets the still mountainside and the bears settle into their slumber, a magical event unfolds in the heart of Romania. Young men and boys immerse themselves in an ancient pagan tradition, donning vibrant costumes of stags, bears, and devil figures to chase away evil spirits and ensure a prosperous harvest. Their laughter and chants ripple through the night, their presence leaving an echo that lingers in the soul, carrying the magic of the old world into the new year.
This mystical ritual profoundly influences my personal work, inspiring me to explore how memories, especially those from my childhood in Romania, shift and evolve over time. My textile creations mirror this transformation, beginning with the carefree wonder of youth and gradually unfolding into a deeper, more enigmatic journey—capturing the essence of memories that are ever-changing and full of mystery.