Traditional handicrafts: Krippenbauverein Saalfelden and its art

Traditional handicrafts: Krippenbauverein Saalfelden and its art

In the picturesque Saalfelden, where tradition and art meet, the nativity center has been the goal of 22 years now to keep the valuable cultural asset of the crib building alive. The association, founded by Peter Innerhofer in 2000, is dedicated to various types of cribs, from Alpine to modern creations. His son Thomas took over the management of the association and both share a passion that goes far beyond mere crafts

"The Alpine cribs are particularly popular in our region, but there are also numerous contemporary interpretations," explains Peter Innerhofer during a conversation with Thomas. "Carving the characters is the biggest challenge; today you can hardly find handmade copies," notes Thomas. Indeed, the traditional craft of carving encounters large hurdles, since the costs for handmade figures, often around 150 euros each, are an obstacle for many.

The art of carving

"Every crib is a work of art - the personal expression in the design makes them unique," says Peter Innerhofer. He explains that cheating or linden wood is mainly used for carving. It is up to the artists whether the figures are designed natural or colorful. The process itself is delicate: "You need a lot of patience and a good feeling for the material," adds Thomas. As a rule, experienced carvers need about a whole day to complete a figure.

traditionally, the crib is already set up on the first Advent, but the child of Jesus only finds its place on December 24th. The three kings, who are added on January 6, are also essential components of every nativity play. "The Holy Family is in the center of every crib," emphasize the Innerhofers mutually.

Another aspect that the two address is the use of materials for the area around the crib. "The nature of the site should be realistically designed - we use materials from the high mountains that are transfigured and worn out," explains Thomas, adding that the selection of the moss is also decisive for the stability of the figures.

rounded off the art of the crib building by the personal touch of each individual, which is realized in his work. The creation of a crèche is not only seen as a craft, but also as a creative form of expression. At a time when machine production dominates more and more, Peter and Thomas rely on the peculiarity of handmade creating and the associated tradition.

The legacy of the crib building in Saalfelden is thus kept alive through the tireless use of the association. An exemplary devotion that spreads the anticipation of Christmas not only in Saalfelden, but far beyond. For more information and insights into the interesting world of the crib building, the article by www.meinbezirk.at referred.