Upcoming International Symposium to Explore Contemporary Handicrafts
On May 23, 2025, Department of Ethnology and Cultural Anthropology at the Faculty of Arts, University of Ljubljana will host the international symposium “Hands-on Ethnographies: Production and Meaning of (Contemporary) Handicrafts”. This event, part of the Faculty of Arts’ Year of Heritage, will bring together researchers and enthusiasts to explore the dynamic field of handicrafts.
The symposium will feature sessions examining the representation and practices of handicrafts in today’s world. Discussions will cover various topics, including the social role of handicrafts, women’s perspectives on craft production, the impact of technology on traditional practices, and the potential of handicrafts to address challenges of adolescence and ageing. Saša Poljak Istenič from the Culturality project team will moderate the “Representations” session, bringing findings from recent Culturality research into the conversation.
In addition to the academic discussions, the event will highlight the practical and social dimensions of handicrafts. A handicraft fair scheduled for the same day will enable visitors to interact with craftspeople and their creations directly. Furthermore, a public discussion on May 22 will explore the cognitive benefits and contemporary significance of engaging in handicraft activities.
The symposium aims to emphasize the ongoing importance of handicrafts in contemporary society, highlighting their connections to cultural heritage, economic structures, and personal well-being.
