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Barróg on Talamh (hug from the Land) is a collaborative series of one-of-a-kind criosanna –or traditional Irish colourful woven belts. This crios was lovingly designed and woven by Helena Husinec, made using naturally-dyed Galway Wool. Each unique crios is released as it becomes available and there is only one of each.
Crios are one of the surviving pieces of traditional Irish clothing, usually worn around the waist as a belt. For this series, the wool from the native Irish Galway sheep was naturally dyed using Mexican indigo leaves, Irish and European weld plants and European madder roots. A real Irish-grown and made product! 🐑
Born in the picturesque northwest of Croatia, Helena Husinec‘s life began as part of the first generation to experience city living—a departure from the land-working roots of her ancestors. Despite the urban surroundings, her connection to the land was never severed. School holidays and weekends were spent with her grandparents, immersed in the tranquil embrace of nature. It was there that she nurtured a profound love for the earth, her abundant gifts, and the simplicity of life away from the hustle and bustle. Her heart found solace in the gardens, where she foraged and processed a bounty of plants and spent time with the animals. These experiences were not just tasks; they were a soothing balm for her soul.
Relocating to the Irish countryside marked the beginning of a deeper bond with the land. Ireland’s lush landscapes offered a canvas upon which she could further explore her connection to nature. Here, she delved into traditional practices—processing and spinning wool, tanning sheepskins and deerskin, weaving willow, playing with clay creating pottery, preserving food and gardening for family.
Among the many plants, it was the willow that first captured her heart. Its flexibility and strength inspired her to explore weaving and those qualities. This journey naturally led her to the art of crios weaving, a traditional craft that involves the intricate weaving of wool. On a cold winter day at her dear friend Kathleen’s house, Helena was introduced to this age-old craft by Mishel. The magic of weaving wool, textures, and time captivated her, and she found herself deeply connected to this art form.
Today, Helena embraces the traditional crafts that have become her passion and purpose. Weaving wool and willow, processing food and medicine, and being a guardian of heirloom plants are not just hobbies; they are where she belongs. This life, deeply rooted in tradition and the cycles of nature, provides her with a sense of fulfillment and belonging. It is a testament to the enduring connection between humanity and the earth.
