A LOCAL artisan Lydia Rosa from Beleha in Central Guadalcanal has urged the younger generation to learn and appreciate the age-old local crafting knowledge that have been passed down through generations.
In a recent exclusive interview with Solomon Star, Ms Rosa shared her concerns about the diminishing interest in traditional crafting amongst the youths of today.
“Our cultural heritage is woven into the fabric of these crafts,” she explained with her eyes alight with fervor.
“If we let these age-old techniques fade into obscurity, we risk losing a vital part of who we are as a community,” she added.
MS Rosa, known for her exquisite handcrafted stuff and intricate old traditional designs, emphasized the importance of hands-on learning and the transformative power of traditional crafting.
“There is a unique magic that happens when you create something with your hands, connecting to the past, while bringing something new into the world,” she remarked. “It’s a deeply fulfilling experience that nourishes the soul and fosters a sense of belonging.”
In the community of Belaha in Central Guadalcanal, Ms Rosa engages actively with local youths by passing the traditional knowledge and skills of craft weaving.
Through these initiatives, she hopes to spark a revival of interest in ancestral crafts and inspire a new generation of artisans to carry forward this rich legacy.
“I truly believe that by learning these traditional crafts, the youth can not only hone their creativity but also develop a profound respect for our cultural roots,” Ms Rosa asserted. “Every stitch, every brushstroke, every weaving tells a story—a story of resilience, craftsmanship and cultural identity.”
In a rapidly changing world, where technology reigns supreme and trends come and go like fleeting whispers in the wind, the call to embrace traditional crafting as a form of cultural preservation grows louder, resonating through the hands and hearts of the young generation.
By JIMMY NOLAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
