Section

Makers & Craft

Profiles of the artisans and craftspeople preserving and reinventing rich cultural traditions.

A stark contrast between a large, commercial furniture exhibition hall and a small display of unique, handcrafted artisan furniture, emphasizing the dominance of mass-produced trends.

Furniture Exhibitions: Commercial Trends vs. True Craft

Last year's Milan Design Week drew over 370,000 visitors, yet a mere 5% of exhibiting brands represented independent artisans, according to the Salone del Mobile Report .

Elijah Vance· Jun 23· 4 min

Close-up of indigenous artisan's hands embroidering intricate details onto the Adidas Mexico World Cup jersey, showcasing traditional craftsmanship.

Adidas x Someone Somewhere El Tri Collection Weaves 150+ Artisans' Traditions

Over 15 months, 150 indigenous women artisans in Naupan, Puebla, meticulously brought 100,000 unique embellishments to life for Adidas's new Mexico World Cup jersey.

Elijah Vance· Jun 6· 4 min

A close-up of an artisan's hands skillfully crafting a unique handmade object in a sunlit workshop, highlighting the dedication to regional craftsmanship.

Beyond the Megadeal: How Regional Ecosystems Forge Local Prosperity

The article advocates for a shift from traditional state-centric strategies focused on attracting large corporations to cultivating interconnected regional economic ecosystems. This modern approach emphasizes collaboration between businesses, educational institutions, and civic organizations to foster innovation, support local industries, and build more resilient economies.

Elijah Vance· Jun 3· 4 min

Elderly master artisan's hands sculpting a clay idol, with a modern city skyline subtly visible in the background, representing the clash of tradition and modernity.

Four Ways the World Honors Its Master Artisans

The world honors master artisans through diverse award programs, each reflecting distinct philosophies from celebrating lifetime achievement and cultural heritage to supporting emerging talent. Understanding these varied approaches is crucial for appreciating how craft is recognized and sustained.

Elijah Vance· Jun 25· 4 min

Close-up of artisan hands weaving intricate patterns on a traditional loom, highlighting the skill and dedication involved in preserving cultural heritage.

Why Preserving Artisan Heritage Matters for Cultural Authenticity

From Parisian runways to fast-fashion racks, indigenous designs frequently appear, often without recognition or fair compensation for the artisans who originated them.

Elijah Vance· Jul 21· 3 min

A bustling marketplace filled with authentic regional products and proud local artisans, symbolizing the value of Geographical Indication tags.

What is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag and Why Does It Matter?

In 2017, products protected by Geographical Indication (GI) tags generated €74.

Elijah Vance· Jul 11· 3 min

Close-up of a craftsman's hands carefully carving a wooden Torii gate with traditional Japanese tools in a bright workshop.

Choosing an Online Japanese Woodworking Course: Foundational Tools or a Finished Project?

Online Japanese woodworking courses offer two main learning paths: foundational skill-building or project-based instruction. This guide compares providers like Suikoushya, Domestika, and Studio NOHA to help you choose the right course based on your experience and goals.

Elijah Vance· Jun 7· 4 min