Reviving Tradition: The Lithuanian Vodka Gold Limited Edition

Edvardas Kavarskas Merges Folklore and Modernity in Award-Winning Design

The primary inspiration for this design came from Lithuanian folklore and ethnographical symbols, specifically oak leaves and lily flowers. In Lithuanian folklore, lilies are associated with femininity, while oak symbolizes masculinity, strength, and courage. This intertwining of male and female elements is a key feature of the design, which also emphasizes the Lithuanian spirit through the use of the national flag's colors - yellow, green, and red.

The Lithuanian Vodka Gold Limited Edition is not just a vodka bottle, but an unexpected link between yesterday and today. The design revives old ethnographical symbols, presenting them in a modern context. This fusion of tradition and modernity sets the design apart, making it a unique representation of Lithuanian culture and identity.

The vodka bottle is made of glass with an aluminium closure, and the design is printed on a PET thermo-shrink sleeve using flexography. The product dimensions are 76 mm in width and 293 mm in height, with the packaging dimensions being 244 mm in width and 265 mm in height.

The design project, which was completed in September 2011, was a collaborative effort. The design team, LT identity, included fashion designers Ieva Seviakovaite and Jolanta Rimkute, and graphic designer and art director Edvardas Kavarskas. The agency Adell Taivas Ogilvy, TAPE for advertisement animation, and Garso architektura for advertisement music were also partners in this project.

Despite vodka being a very traditional category in Lithuania, the team managed to infuse the product with a modern touch while maintaining its traditional attributes. This challenge was successfully overcome, resulting in a design that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in Lithuanian tradition. The Lithuanian Vodka Gold Limited Edition is a limited edition of 150,000 bottles, making it a special addition to the shelves of Lithuanian retail stores.

In conclusion, the Lithuanian Vodka Gold Limited Edition, designed by Edvardas Kavarskas, is a testament to the power of design in bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. The design's recognition with the Golden A' Packaging Design Award in 2012 is a well-deserved accolade for a design that not only looks good but also carries deep cultural significance.