"The Heart of the Artisan": When Craft Becomes Art

The Ukrainian brand of premium bags and accessories, Blackwood, has launched a new project that tells the stories of artisans who create unique items every day.

"The Heart of the Artisan" features nine stories that dive into the depth of craftsmanship, the creators’ mission, and their value in shaping the brand's DNA.

Blackwood began its journey in 2016 in Odesa. The brand was founded by designer Yana Kirova and IT entrepreneur Andrii Boiko. They prioritize uniqueness and quality over fleeting trends. Only the finest materials are used in production: natural leather, various types of wood, flowers, and semi-precious stones. Their pieces come with long-term warranties and can be restored indefinitely. Because every detail is handcrafted, each finished accessory may slightly differ from the next. Just one glance at the wooden side-panel bags, adorned with carvings and hand-painted details, is enough to captivate.

Moreover, building the production team is a vital part of the process, as it’s the skilled specialists who bring ideas to life, infusing their soul into the work. Yana and Andrii have succeeded in assembling a team of passionate individuals — and that’s what drives Blackwood’s success: when manual craftsmanship blends with nature and deep storytelling.

The project reveals the brand’s inner world — a community of dedicated artisans who share what inspires and motivates them. They speak about their personal journeys, challenges, and why they continue to create.

"I craft each bag with love for every stitch and detail. When I work, I’m fully focused — and everything flows naturally," shares Oleksandra, a sewing artisan.

"Working with wood is a moment of full immersion — a state of flow. The wood ‘responds’ to me, and I try to listen to it," says Maksym, a wood craftsman.

Overall, the full stories of each artisan can be found on Blackwood’s official website in the "Heart of the Artisan" section.

To sum up, the brand embraces an eco-conscious philosophy — giving items a second life and showcasing the uniqueness of every accessory and detail.