A Common Craft

Location Notations / June 13, 2019

Just when I thought I had explored every last crook and cranny of Cesky Krumlov, I somehow ended up wandering into a narrow street with a small sign hanging overhead. “Craft alley” was its label, and the few doors lining it had titles like “Sewing”, “Pottery”, and “Black Smith”. The sound of metal on metal drew me near and the image of flying sparks and shiny projects just wouldn’t leave my mind. I made my way into the tiny, dark entrance and down a risky set of stairs. Beyond the front door was no more than an arrangement of handmade rings, necklaces, helmets, and their maker.

After building up the courage to distract the man from his work, I was able to speak with Vladimir for a moment and make his photograph. He has only been working at this location for about three months, but he said not to tell anyone  – so shhhh. His real passion was with music, guitar specifically. He had been repairing guitars and playing small gigs here and there, but needed a substantial form of income. English was most certainly not Vladimir’s first language, so I didn’t get much more out of him. It was evident that life here was new and somewhat foreign to him; he new lives in a small village outside of Cesky Krumlov, but I’m not entirely sure where he was coming from.

I walked out of that shop pretty amused with myself. Taking pictures of people is already a little terrifying and I just walked into an empty room with a grown man holding an axe, raging fire consuming the walls behind him. I left the shop feeling like I had spent a few minutes with an old friend who was just trying to make it.

Today was our last full day here and I’m really going to miss it. Quite frankly, walking these streets feels a little too good to be true. It’s like some kind of secluded wonderland, what with the colors and the sweet, sweet people. Rivers flowing, castles extending their necks over the city, art around every corner. I’m going to miss this place.