K u r e n t

About the Carnival One of the most important traditions in Slovenia is related to Carnival (on Thursday in February). The "strange" figure colorized in red is called Kurent and is a mythical pagan creature who, according to the people's belief, chases Winter away and welcomes Spring. Nowadays no-one believes in the Kurent's power anymore, but the tradition is more alive than ever and is now celebrated all around the country, not just in its original place, Ptuj. On the last Sunday before Shrove Tuesday Kurents go through the streets running and jumbling with bells that hang from their belts to ring out loud and scare the cold Winter away. There are other customs linked to this tradition such as the girls offering handkerchiefs to the Kurents and the housewifes breaking clay pots at the Kurents' feet for good luck...

About theKurent The Kurent mask is a major work of folk art in Slovenia. The original masks are made of leather, with two holes cut out for the eyes, and a single hole cut out for the mouth. The holes are surrounded with red paint. A trunk-like nose is attached, along with whiskers made of twigs and teeth made of white beans. The final touch is a long, red tongue which dangles down to the chest. The Kurents travel throughout the town, moving from house to house to scare off evil spirits with bells and wooden clubs that are topped with hedgehog spines. A devil acts as the leader of the procession. He is covered in a net to catch souls. The Kurents are presented with the handkerchiefs of young girls. These gifts are attached to their belts. The people of the town smash clay pots at the feet of the Kurents for good luck and good health.

The description of the Kurent Kurent has got a dark hairy head-covering, yellow face, fork- like wooden forked twig, on which we can see colourful strips. A long red tongue hangs from his mouth and above the mouth there is a big nose. Kurent has usually got blue eyes. He’s wearing a thick yellow fur- like coat hanging to the ankles. Instead of the belt he’s wearing a chain with cow’s bells. He’s also wearing dark shoes and has got red woollen socks.

Examples - how to make a Kurent of:  paper plates

 paper bag These are just examples. We’re looking forward to seeing your ideas.

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