The Michelangelo Foundation presents artisans who have carved a unique place for themselves in the world of craftsmanship.
What does rarity mean in the modern world? A little-known technique, materials unique to a region, an artisan’s passion and determination to pursue excellence, or a craftsman who has taught himself to make one-of-a-kind objects. For example:
What does rarity mean in the modern world? A little-known technique, materials unique to a region, an artisan’s passion and determination to pursue excellence, or a craftsman who has taught himself to make one-of-a-kind objects. For example:
• A ceramicist in Sweden taking the centuries-old tradition of wood-burning stoves and bringing it right up to date for contemporary life
• A dynamic feather artist-artisan in Paris who is dedicated to passing on his unique skills to a new generation
• An automaton-maker who combines the long-held traditions of his region with contemporary sculpture to create mechanical masterpieces
Conference attendees will discover these singular talents by way of artistic short films by Swiss filmmaker Thibault Vallotton, which were originally commissioned for Homo Faber. A ballet of gestures, faces, places and wonderful objects, the films take visitors inside and around the workshops of these European artisans to observe the incredible craftsmanship they have mastered, the places that inspire them and the beautiful works they create. Together, the films show us the value of the human hand and remind us that it is possible to transform a passion into a profession. In the context of Skills for the Future, these artisans also demonstrate the tenacity and determination necessary to ensure these unique professions have a bright future.