I’m Zoe, a graduate in Modern Greek Philology from the University of Crete. For years, I’ve been immersed in the study of Greek folklore tradition, with a particular focus on folk weaving art.
I come from a family with a weaving tradition in Ano Viannos, where a rich folk culture and high weaving artistry have flourished in the past. Since my childhood, I’ve been exposed to various stimuli related to folk arts such as knitting, macramé, weaving, embroidery, and silk production (sericulture).
In recent years, I have been studying textiles from other countries, seeking similarities between Cretan weavers and those from other regions.
I drew inspiration for the name “Ergastini” from the Parthenon’s relief sculpture, the “Ergastines,” which depicts young women weaving the robe of the goddess Athena and carrying it to the procession of the Panathenaic festival. They would dedicate this robe to the goddess, who was the protector of the weaving art.
I attended classes in a traditional loom workshop near traditional weavers in Crete. At the same time, I began experimenting with various techniques on modern looms.
At the same time, I studied the intricate handcrafted cords (finger loop cords) made by the women of Crete, known for their skillful techniques and colorful combinations. These cords were utilitarian and often used on woven items.
Later on, I discovered the Japanese art of cord weaving using the kumihimo disk.
Additionally, I became acquainted with the inkle loom and began weaving long, narrow bands using it. I used these bands in various ways on functional items such as clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry, and interior decor.
I also delved into the study of card weaving, an ancient weaving technique found in many regions of Greece and Crete, primarily as a part of individual elements in traditional men’s clothing.
My goal is to create marketable products that blend traditional techniques with a contemporary aesthetic and to engage in the organized dissemination of these techniques.
Sacred Art – Weavers of Crete
In 2020, I took part in the documentary “Sacred Art – Weavers of Crete” directed by Konstantina Palli and produced by the Municipality of Heraklion. This documentary received the first prize for best documentary in international competitions.
Weavers of Greece
In 2022, I was officially registered as one of the “Weavers of Greece” by the cultural organization Branding Heritage, as part of the Ministry of Culture’s program for craftsmanship in Greece.
You can see the entry here
Collaboration with the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum.
The “Vourgiali” series by Ergastini is inspired by the “vourgiali” (woven bag) used by Nikos Kazantzakis for his documents and books. This bag dates back to the mid-19th century and was created in the region of Rethymno, Crete.
It is exclusively available through the museum shop and the online store of the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum.
