Podgorica, (MINA) – A colouring book featuring motifs of traditional Polish and Montenegrin folk costumes, designed to introduce children to the traditions and cultures of the two countries in an engaging and interactive way, was presented today at the Cultural-Information Center (KIC) “Budo Tomović,” in Podgorica.
The colouring book, titled “Folk Costumes of Poland and Montenegro”, was published by the Montenegrin Colouring Book with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Podgorica.
Adrijana Husić, the Editor of the Montenegrin Colouring Book, said that the costumes depicted in the book were worn on different occasions, evolved and that each region tells its own story through them.
She added that the Montenegrin Colouring Book team is most curious to see how children will bring colour to the illustrated costumes.
“You will give them a new story and colour. If you wish, once you finish colouring the pages and using the stickers included in this book, you can send us your drawings so we can see how you brought these costumes to life,” Husić invited the children.
Aida Batilović, the Director of KIC “Budo Tomović”, said that this project dedicated to children becomes a valuable educational tool for everyone who believes in the importance of preserving cultural identity.
“The future of culture lies in children’s hands. Their curiosity and sincerity teach us to cherish who we are and to respect others for who they are. Children will experience this colouring book not only as entertainment but also as an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and explore. May this small step into the world of folk costumes be their first step toward a broader understanding of the world around them,” Batilović said.
She thanked the Embassy of the Republic of Poland for recognizing KIC as a place of connection and for fostering mutual respect, cooperation, and open dialogue between the two countries through such projects.
Chargé d’affaires at the Embassy of the Republic of Poland, Malgorzata Lakota Micker, said that the purpose of publishing the colouring book focused on Polish and Montenegrin folk costumes is to promote the cultures of both countries.
“Because today, culture connects everything. Culture builds bridges between generations and encourages respect for the past, tradition, and history. It also teaches openness to new ideas and change in general,” Lakota Micker noted.
First Lady Milena Milatović said that this project highlights the rich cultural heritage of Montenegro and Poland, presented through the colouring book featuring traditional folk costumes.
She emphasized that both Montenegro and Poland take great pride in their ethnographic tapestry, which for generations has been woven with the richness of cultural heritage.
“Today, this heritage stands as a lasting symbol of two cultures that share much in common – the same Slavic roots, centuries-long struggles for freedom, and enduring mutual respect and friendship, as demonstrated by this very event,” Milatović said.
She added that activities like today’s ensure further development and progress in Montenegrin-Polish relations while also giving children, as the most valuable part of society, the opportunity to learn about tradition and culture in an enjoyable and interactive way.
According to Milatović, the costumes depicted in the colouring book are not just clothing; they tell stories of ancestors, customs, and history.
“Children, I hope you will enjoy this colouring book of Polish and Montenegrin folk costumes and that through fun and play, you will discover and learn about the rich cultural expression of our two friendly countries. Through play and colour, you will become little guardians of our cultures. Let your imagination run wild, and may each page of the colouring book be a new adventure,” Milatović said.
The program at KIC also marked June 1 – International Children’s Day – with music and folklore.
