The Treasure of Zbojniks: A Design Masterpiece by Sasha Sharavarau

Unveiling the Unique Blend of Folklore and Design in Zbojnicka Distillates

Sasha Sharavarau, a renowned designer, has created a design masterpiece that is as intriguing as it is beautiful. Drawing inspiration from the folk stories of Zbojniks, Slovak robbers who were seen as the Robin Hoods of the Middle Ages, Sharavarau has crafted a design that is steeped in history and culture. The Zbojniks, known for their rebellions against serfdom, were believed to have hidden treasures in the Slovak mountains. In this design, Sharavarau posits that the true treasure of the Zbojniks was not gold, but a good drink, thus giving birth to the concept of Zbojnicka distillates.

The design's unique properties lie in its storytelling. Each element of the label tells a unique story from Slovak folklore, creating a rich tapestry of tales that engage and intrigue. The label, printed on a glass bottle, uses matte creme paper with a soft texture to evoke the feel of a natural and home-made product. The illustrations, styled like engravings, transport the viewer back in time, while the use of Slovak ornaments from different regions enhances the image of a truly local, traditional product.

The design process involved a careful selection of materials and techniques. Gold embossing is used for the product's name, "Zbojnicka", creating an association with the treasures of the Zbojniks. The bottle's dimensions are 22cm x 10 cm x 6 cm, and the label size is 12 cm x 8 cm. The design team, led by Sharavarau, included Tania Sharavarava, Robert Specian, and Jose Sabino, who contributed their skills in illustration, artwork, and photography respectively.

The design faced several challenges, including creating a unique character for the brand that would distinguish it from competitors, attracting attention to the product, and preserving and conveying Slovak culture and traditions. Despite these challenges, the design was successfully launched on the Slovak off-trade market on 1.4.2020, where it continues to establish a dialogue between the brand and consumers.

Sharavarau's design has been recognized for its excellence, winning the Golden A' Packaging Design Award in 2022. This prestigious award is granted to outstanding creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics. With "The Treasure of Zbojniks", Sharavarau has indeed created a design that is not only visually appealing but also rich in cultural significance, truly deserving of the accolades it has received.