The Vice-Presidency of the Government promotes the participation of the Azores and regional companies in the (FIA) that runs until July 2. It is estimated to register more than 100 thousand visitors.
 
In this edition of the largest fair of the Iberian Peninsula in this area, the Azores Handicrafts presents a new stand with an area of 225 m2, which includes a dozen business modules for companies and the space of the Regional Centre for Handicrafts (CRAA).
 
Designed by young architects Filipe Mota and Paulo Vieitas from SALA2, this stand was built by Azorean companies using only cryptomeria wood from the Azores.
 
The new space develops from modules whose creation has influenced not only traditional Azorean architecture, in the shape of furnaces and chimneys, but also elements of the architecture of production, such as tobacco dryers, barns or corn racks.
 
The purpose is to combine innovation and tradition, under the promotion strategy developed by the Azorean Government. It links the Region with an image of competitiveness and environmental value, conquering foreign markets with the goal of achieving the international recognition for products certified under the "Azores Handicrafts" brand.
 
The new space features the presence of craft production units of São Miguel, Terceira and Pico, which will display works using several techniques, including embroidery, lace, fish scale, sea-themed nativity scenes, Holy Christ of Miracles "registos" (representations), ceramics, costume jewellery, vegetable fibres and weaving.
 
The participation in the Lisbon International Craft Fair aims to promote Azorean handicrafts and artisans, with a view to reaching new audiences. For nine days, the event will welcome not only professionals and handicraft lovers, but also those who are interested in crafts as a cultural manifestation.
 
This event is one of the most important platforms for the promotion and business of Azorean craft companies, promoting not only the exhibition and sale of traditional products but also regional and rural development and the relation of natural resources with culture and tourism.
 
Handicrafts are growing dynamically in the Azores with the emergence of new companies and job creation, playing a role in change, renovation and repositioning of the collective brand - "Azores Handicrafts."