VÖÖ | sivard

VÖÖ

7x15 meters

kihnu native sheep raw wool, cotton

2020

"Besides depicting the visible world, the purpose of art is to convey the invisible world in a way that allows us to understand it and see it. Ornaments help people receive, organise and relay necessary information. This information contains values that are not treated lightly. Ancient geometric shapes have often survived unchanged for centuries on clothing because the sacral sphere associated with the celebration of humans and their limits is conservative." - Kärt Summatavet

The 'Vöö' (Belt) is a monumental seven-meter belt inspired by traditional Estonian woven and ornamental belts. Through performance, it delves into Estonians’ relationship with death, loss, and the afterlife. The main objects that inspired the work were a woven belt decorated with human figures from Tõstamaa Parish and almost 10-metre-long belts that the women of Muhu island had to spin themselves in. By linking spinning action and figures, the project became centred in movement and the human body.

This giant double-sided belt comes alive in performance. Dancers form patterns and ornaments with and within the belt, becoming one with it. Turning the belt inside out symbolizes a connection to the "other side," while wearing it traditionally reflects the belief that ornamental belts offer protection from harm. Participants experience harmony regardless of the side they embody, embodying the dualities of existence.

Crafted entirely from scratch using the wet-felting technique, this work showcases the transformative journey of traditional craft. Kihnu sheep wool served as the primary material, processed into felting wool at a factory in Viljandi. Along the way, the sheep were cared for, and their wool was cleaned, washed, dried, scoured, and carded. Hand-dyed cotton fabric was used to complete the belt. The meditative process of creation became a way to connect with ancestors, emphasising the patience and mindfulness integral to traditional craftsmanship.

Collaboration was essential to bringing this work to life. Beyond the dancers, a larger community of collaborators supported the realization of the work. This collective effort balanced the solitude of preparation with shared creation, inviting participants to interpret, contribute to, and co-create the artwork.

MEDIA COVERAGE

Estonian National Museum, exhibition "Dowry of the Future":

https://www.erm.ee/en/content/dowry-future-0

Estonian Fashion Festival, a finalist: https://fashionfestival.ee/designer/lisette-sivard/

Edasi.org, exhibition review: bit.ly/3LyocI5

Klassikaraadio, podcast: bit.ly/3JMLicK

Supervisors: Piret Puppart, Kärt Summatavet

Video: Eva Sepping

Lighting: Daniel Leevik, Villem Sooster

Choreographer: Daniela Privis

Musical production: Villem Sarapuu

Music: Meisterjaan – Danmoi süsteem