Konjic Woodcarving as a Family Tradition: The Story of Seid
In the heart of Bosnia, where the heritage breathes through the verdant landscapes and echoes in the winding rivers, a story of tradition and art unfolds in a young man. This is the story of Seid, a pioneer of Konjic woodcarving, a craft as old and deeply rooted as the mountains surrounding his hometown Konjic.
Seid's First Interaction With Woodcarving
Seid’s journey with Konjic woodcarving began when he was merely ten years old, through the innocent play of wooden toys carved with intricate Konjic patterns that he watched his father carve every day. “It all started with those toys, little treasures that made my childhood for what it was,” Seid recalls, his eyes lighting up with the joy of a cherished childhood memory.
“And then, it continued with me drawing patterns which my father would later carve into wood and my toys—it was more than just play; it was the beginning of my calling.” This early interaction was not just an introduction to a craft, but a doorway to a lifelong passion that would define his life’s work.
Deciding to Carry the Family Legacy
The art of woodcarving wasn’t just a pastime in Seid’s family; it was a legacy. Taught by his father and inspired by his older brother, Seid was born into one of the oldest families to practice this craft in the region. “My father and brother were my first teachers, watching them do what they love every day in the workshop, has shaped the foundation of my love for the craft” he explains.
“The workshop was like a second home, a place where I learned not just about carving, but about life. My brother was my role model, so to see him practice this craft inspired me to start as well.” This familial connection to the craft added layers of depth and significance to each piece he created, embedding family memories and traditions into the wood itself.
Discovering His Creative Voice and Style
For Seid, woodcarving came as naturally as breathing. “It was easy, like the flow of the river,” he describes. “When you love something deeply, learning it doesn’t feel like a task—it becomes a part of who you are. They say if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life and that resonates deeply with me.”
At ten, Seid recalls convincing his father every day to let him carve simple patterns. “I was really stubborn to learn and one day my father said yes and gave me my first “task”. It started with carving branches and leaves bit by bit, the basics, but even those felt like creating something magical.” His early forays into carving were not just about mastering the craft, but discovering his own creative voice and style as he learned this century old craft.
Honouring His Family's Carving Signature
In their carvings, Seid’s family focused mostly on traditional patterns like the Rešma and arabesque pattern and motifs such as grapevines which symbolize growth and continuity in Bosnian culture. These patterns were not just decorative but filled with the family’s history and soul, showing the lives of the generations that came before.
In their carvings, Seid’s family focused mostly on traditional patterns like the Rešma and arabesque pattern and motifs such as grapevines which symbolize growth and continuity in Bosnian culture. These patterns were not just decorative but filled with the family’s history and soul, showing the lives of the generations that came before.
The Craft Still Fully Breathes in His Family
The craft of Konjic woodcarving endured through Seid’s family from generation to generation. After the passing of his father, it was up to Seid and his brother to carry on the tradition. “Once my father passed, it was clear to me and my brother that we need to fully pursue Konjic woodcarving, as it was a duty higher than ourselves. I mean, how can one let go of a mesmerising craft that defined our family and heritage for centuries,” Seid recalls.
“What’s especially interesting today is my nephew, who is now ten. The same age as I started, he is already showing a remarkable talent for the craft,” Seid proudly states. “He picked it up just by watching us, with a precision and passion that you would hardly believe from a young boy. Truly remarkable, he even wanted to come to our WAGA workshop and show his talents. I didn’t even have to explain much, the passion combined with what he learned from watching me and my brother was simply enough.”
Konjic Woodcarving As More Than a Craft
For Seid, Konjic woodcarving is more than a craft. He compares it to the soulful melodies of sevdalinka—it is his cultural identity, his pride, the basis of who he is. “This craft is my heritage, it is my life. It’s why I stay in Bosnia, why I carve every day. It’s not just work; it’s a testament to where I come from,” he passionately explains.
Woodcarving for Seid is more than a profession; it is a way of life that connects him to his roots and the rich history of his people. “If you told me today that I would never earn anything from woodcarving, I will still sit in the workshop day and night, doing what I love the most. That’s how special Konjic woodcarving is for me, it’s my escape and connection at the same time to the whole world around me,” Seid explains.
Becoming a Part of WAGA's Team
“Before WAGA, I used to have my own workshop. I would open and close down when I wanted, with complete freedom. When WAGA emerged as a guardian of this age-old craft, I saw an opportunity to do a bigger part in protecting the craft’s future. Suddenly, I decided to leave my workshop and dedicate all of my time in helping Jasmina keeping the craft alive,” he recalls.
“Joining WAGA was a decision driven by love—for the craft and for future generations,” says Seid. WAGA, to him, represented a new chapter where the craft would continue to thrive and be preserved. His decision to join WAGA was fueled by a vision of sustainability and growth, ensuring that this traditional art form continues to inspire and engage future generations.
Seid's Hopes for Konjic Woodcarving
Seid dreams of a renaissance in Konjic woodcarving, recalling days when it was a vital part of the local economy and culture. “Before, we had multiple factories that crated furniture with Konjic woodcarving. There were places where young and old people would come together, do their work, celebrate their differences with the multuaI love of the craft,” he remembers nostalgically.
“I hope to see it taught in schools as a hobby class, celebrated in communities, and cherished as a precious part of our heritage. I hope that with WAGA, there will be a place for all interested people to come and learn the craft, doing their part to keep the heritage alive,” he envisions. His hope is for Konjic woodcarving to regain its historical stature and become a cornerstone of cultural identity and pride.
The DUNYA Jewellery Box: Seid's Favourite Creation
Among the many items that Seid has carved, the DUNYA jewellery box holds a special place in his heart. “It’s adorned with the most traditional Bosnian motifs, that remind me of my roots with every glance. This is an item that especially means to me, as I helped in the design process” he explains.
“Working on it, especially designing it alongside Jasmina, was a profound experience. Each time I touch its delicate carvings, I fall into a meditative state of mind, showing me who I truly am and what the beauties of the world hold. This piece specifically is an exact representation of the century old practice in my family”.
This particular piece is not only a reflection of his skill but also an embodiment of his emotional and cultural connection to the craft.
