Nations collaborate to develop handicraft industry
20 Dec '07
2 min read
Iran handicrafts are known worldwide for their radically distinctive characteristics and high quality. Carpets in particular have become very popular in EU and US markets and for this very reason; Iranian exports have an edge over its competitors.
Rug weaving, silver making, sculpturing, painting, woodworking, crockery making, ceramic and mosaic works are some of the most popular Iranian handicraft skills practiced for ages.
However, lack of infrastructure and assistance from the Government has caused a good amount of loss to the industry affecting millions of workers employed by the industry. As a result the handicraft sector came to a near collapse forcing the authorities to take some serious measures.
To promote this rich handicraft sector of Iran, Persepolis Cultural Center, the Ruham Naqsh-e Sepahan Company, and Isfahan's Handicraft Export Union cosponsored 'Isfahan, the color of sky', second edition of an annual exhibition held in Madrid on December 17.
The expo essentially aimed at familiarizing the Spanish with the nuances of various cultures and practices especially handicraft. It displayed an array of craft works ranging from carpets to tile art and engraving.
The event has certainly served its purpose of strengthening trade relations between the two countries and it is hoped that such exhibitions will be arranged more frequently and in varied countries to help sustain the vital handicraft industry of every country.
A similar exhibition was held at the Kaisa International Center of Helsinki in Finland on September 23 this year which displayed handicrafts from different parts of Iran like Iranian Khatam (Persian marquetry), etchings, enamels, carpets, Kilims (flat tapestry-woven carpets), rugs, and calico cloths.
Also, the 12th Artigiano of Italy in Fiera, which is recognized as the biggest international trade fair dedicated to arts and crafts also welcomed Iranian artists.
Experts believe that organizing such exhibitions would encourage exports from Iran and Spain could prove to be a potential market for such high quality handicraft products.
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