How it all started
From the first time when I saw a Bulgarian 'shevitza' I was amazed by its beauty and grace, by the time and precision put in the making of the embroidery and by the variety of colors and the harmony in the composition. I was impatient to learn more about the meaning entangled in the mysterious forms and to feel the energy flowing from it.
The Bulgarian 'shevitza' is part of our folklore and is used to ornate the traditional bulgarian clothing called 'nosiya'. It is believed that these symbols bring protection and well being to the one who wears them. Every symbol has its own meaning but generally they all have positive impact. The other interesting thing is that the different regions in Bulgaria have different types of 'shevitza' - they may vary in color and shape.
My passion for the Bulgarian 'shevitza' was awoken after a trip to Rhodope mountains where I met very old, but rather vibrant lady. She caught my attention with her clothing - she was wearing white shirt with 'shevitza' symbols around the sleeves and the neck. We had a nice talk and she told me that she is always wearing this shirt, because as she said 'It protects me!'
With my project 'Kitna' I wanted to caught people's attention and to show that the forgotten Bulgarian 'shevitza' has its place in the contemporary world. My goal was to take it from our clothing and to put it into jewelry so that the modern man or woman can combine his contemporary outfit with something traditional which will bring positive energy and protection trough the day.
