The Artist's Guide
Arts & Crafts Abroad: 3 Fun Classes to Try in Croatia
Are you planning a trip to Croatia and looking for fun craft activities to do while you’re there? If creating things with your own hands gives you a deep sense of satisfaction—or if you have a craft lover in your life—here are 3 workshops to try in Croatia:
1. Make licitar hearts near Zagreb
If you are looking for a unique gift to show someone that you love them, search no more: You simply can’t go wrong with a licitar heart! (Bonus points if you make it yourself.) Licitar hearts are these colorful cookies made from honey dough and decorated with sugar frosting you’ll see everywhere around Zagreb. Traditionally offered to loved ones as gifts, they are also commonly used as Christmas ornaments. In fact, they have been recognized as an important part of Croatian heritage by UNESCO. If you want to learn everything about the age-old tradition of licitar making and how to decorate them like a pro, contact Franjo Oslaković or get in touch with Brigita Mihina of the Arko family shop in Samobor, a village close to Zagreb, to book a workshop.
Franjo Oslaković
Samobor, Perkovčeva 17
Tel: +385 (0)1 3360 032
Brigita Mihina
Samobor, Perkovčeva 10
Tel: +385 (0)91 508 32 55
2. Discover the art of glassblowing in Zadar
Did you know that Croatia was a major glassblowing center when it was part of the Roman Empire? After retracing the history of glassmaking at Zadar’s Museum of Ancient Glass and exploring its outstanding collection of ancient Roman glass, head to the second floor where demos and classes take place. There, you will meet two of the museum’s resident artists: Marko Štefanac, who will show you how to blow glass, and Antonija Gospić, who will demonstrate how to use glassworking torches and burners to make glass jewelry. For more information, email [email protected] or call +385 (0)23 363 831.
Website (in Croatian only): http://www.mas-zadar.hr/
Address: Poljana Zemaljskog Odbora 1, Zadar
Hours: 9 am-9 pm Mon-Sat May-Sep, closes at 4 pm Oct-Apr
3. Paint and sip in Split
Be warned: This is not your standard art class! Hone your painting skills under the guidance of a local artist while sipping tasty wine in a fun, social atmosphere. Whether you’ve already taken up painting as a hobby or haven’t picked up a paintbrush since leaving school, you’ll be sure to create something you’ll be proud of and make new friends all at the same time. Sign up as a group or go on your own, and unleash your inner Picasso.
Website: http://www.artbottega.com.hr/
Address: Pineli & Vino – Art Bottega, Jerina ul. 1, Split
Whether as a gift for someone else, a souvenir for yourself, or simply as a way to learn about the culture and make some new friends, consider finding an arts & craft activity while in Croatia. And don’t forget to book your very special Croatian vacation rental with THE STELLA today!
