CAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP PRESERVE TRADITIONAL CRAFTS?
Four years ago, master woodworker Raden- ko Velinov returned from Scotland with the dream of reviving traditional crafts and occu- pations in his native village. Radenko bought an old purification plant in Smilyan and be- gan restoring it with his own money. When he completes the renovation, the Purifier’s workshop and exhibition space would enable artists and makers of various stripes to prac- tice, display, and teach their craft to others. Bringing artists and craftsmen under the same roof would catalyze collaborations and the establishment of small businesses, attracting tourism and benefiting the local economy. Radenko’s vision attracted dozens of volun- teers and donors as well as the support of the America for Bulgaria Foundation. In June
2023, the Purifier opened its doors and now welcomes artists and visitors.
The Purifier’s guests have access to craft workshops, a coworking space, a fantastic open area for relaxation, yoga, movie nights, and chats with new friends (over Rhodope herbal tea, of course!), as well as the unsur- passed hospitality of the host — Radenko and his family. For his efforts to preserve Bulgarian tradi- tions, Radenko was awarded a Worthy Bul- garian distinction in 2022.
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