2024

CRAFTSMANSHIP IN CERAMICS

Winner: Luis Gutierrez, Nicaragua. Work: Masaya linda Masaya.

Celebrates the rich indigenous tradition of his people, applying colours based on earth and mineral oxides.

He uses the ancestral indigenous Nicoya technique in ceramics, which has pre-Columbian roots. In addition to his artisanal work, Luis works to keep local culture alive by encouraging new generations to educate themselves and seek opportunities for traditional Nicaraguan art to be recognised worldwide.


 

TEXTILE CRAFTSMANSHIP

HONOUR MENTION: Carmen Vázquez Hernández, Mexico. Work: Huipil made with the back-strap loom technique, with brocades from the Tsotsil cosmovision.

For her constant work in the revalorisation of the atrtesanal culture, she was included among the 100 most powerful women of 2020 in the June edition of Forbes Mexico magazine.

She has also participated in exhibitions in Japan, Chile, USA, India and Arabia.


 

TEXTILE CRAFTSMANSHIP

WINNER: Elvia Paucar, Peru. Work: Traditional tapestry woven on a four-pedal loom.

Elvia Paucar is a native of San Pedro de Cajas, Junín, but now lives in Lima (Peru). She weaves large tapestries or blankets called caiserinas, which are made from the fleece of sheep’s wool to be spun in pushka or carded. The works are woven on a treadle loom with a comb. Caiserina blankets were formerly woven for the shelter of miners and muleteers, but today they are used for other purposes.


 

METAL CRAFTSMANSHIP

WINNER: Martín Viteri, Argentina. Work: Jarro del Faisán.

The silver 900 used in his works is recovered. In addition, the offcuts from his works are also recovered (i.e. the works do not generate waste).

Martín Viteri designs and makes each piece by hand from the casting of the silver to the final chiselling. His products are unique, high quality and reflect a craft tradition rich in history and cultural significance.


 

WOOD CRAFTSMANSHIP

HONOUR MENTION: Hipólito Vázquez Sanchez, Mexico. Work: Nativity of the Infant Jesus.

Master Hipólito Vázquez Sánchez from Mexico, is a self-taught sculptor in carved wood. He has been awarded an honourable mention for the meticulous and precious carving of great artisan quality of the work presented.

His work is not only an artistic representation, but also a symbol of faith and culture.

The wood used is Tlaxistle.


 

WOOD CRAFTSMANSHIP

WINNER: Matías Conci, Argentina. Work: Chair in one piece.

The master Matías creates unique pieces using natural wood found in the bush. Inspired by his grandfather from an early age, Matías designs and transforms fallen logs into functional works of art.

The technique of the work is 100% hand carved and polished wood. It stands out for its innovative fretwork design in circles and its impeccable technical finish. His work combines tradition and innovation.