On Friday 7 August, we visited Škofja Loka, known in Slovenia as a city of crafts. At the Rokodelski Center, we were welcomed by its director, Kati Sekirnik, who introduced us to the centre’s work and philosophy.

The Rokodelski Center is a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving, developing and passing on Slovenian craft heritage. It is part of a national consortium of 19 craft centres across Slovenia, little bit similas as our Taito. The centre combines a shop and exhibition space with facilities for workshops and courses.

Škofja Loka has a long craft history from the Middle Ages, with traditions including weaving, blacksmithing and leatherwork. Kati also introduced us to textile artists at Kreativnice, where an artist collective organises workshops, events and exhibitions. We also visited the studio of ceramicist and architect Uršula Oitzl Magister Urchic, whose flexible studio and beautiful porcelain work were inspiring.

The visit gave us a broader understanding of Slovenian craft and design culture. We discussed how some traditional craft skills were lost during the Yugoslav period and how organisations are now working to bring these skills back and pass them on to new generations.

We found many similarities between Slovenia and Finland. International networking and sharing knowledge can help craft organisations face common challenges. The visit left us with new ideas and connections, thank you!