Creativity is something which needs to be valued, explored and expressed. Crafts express emotions about creativity as well as how one can use his head and heart to capture memories, mood, and feelings in distinctive ways. Whether it is arts or crafts, everything about creativity involves honest feelings. Creativity is infinite and cannot be exhausted as there is always something new to explore.
Arts and crafts have always been cherished, but the popularity has increased today with people exploring new tools, styles, and media, in both traditional and contemporary crafts. These days everything can be made with machines, but nothing compares to something made with hands and the heart. The appreciation and demand for handcrafted things are growing, as handcrafts are believed to make homes more human.
Getting a sawdust of wood, a splash of paints or a spot of colour on the floor of your place is what turns your house or apartment into a warm and loving home where you feel comfortable and inspired! Sometimes, the feeling of home is hidden in tiny things and small stories that every item carries with it. The same is the reason behind buying handcrafts and keep them at home. Every piece tells a story, reflecting the passion and inspiration of the artisan who created it. That is why handcrafts make the perfect fit for any house.
Handcrafting is very important for it represents nations’ culture and tradition. It promotes the heritage of a country through the use of local genuine materials and it also preserves traditional knowledge and talents. It marks the expression of history through which artisans showcase its beauty. Throughout the history of humanity, people of different origins, cultures and beliefs have developed strong and notable loyalty to their national genuine cultures, traditions and rituals. Some of the cultural and historical aspects are even celebrated in various occasions and events worldwide.
Despite the technology revolution attacking every house, there are still passionate people about traditions, culture and heritage. They are so attached to their national identity, which is mirrored in all walks of their life. Owning and making handcrafts is something that goes deep into their heart. Some are making their own living from mastering a traditional handcraft industry. Basically, some have not only inherited the business from their ancestors, but in fact they were fed with the passion and born with skillful hands, so they grow up with the talent.
Regardless of all the changes happening in the world and people’s embracing to the modern life, Omanis are presenting an exemplary model of those devoted to preserve their culture, heritage and traditions. Many have never given up working on the traditional handcrafts industries. What is thrilling is to see young Omanis making a living from a business of making handcrafts. Though, some might have the chance to get a better and well paid job opportunity.
They strongly believe in that he who works with his hands is a labourer, he who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman, but he who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist. The Prophet Muhammad, Peace Be Upon Him, was asked what type of earning was best, and he replied: “A man’s work with his hands and every lawful business transaction.”
Art is not a handcraft, it is the transmission of feelings the artist has experienced. Therefore, in crafting, there are no mistakes, just unique creations. As a matter of fact, a piece of art is a world in itself reflecting senses and emotions of the artist’s world.
