The European Craft Days in Mijas concluded on Sunday 12th, with a final day of the Craft Market, which opened on Friday 10th in Plaza Virgen de la Peña, in Mijas Pueblo. Visitors were able to appreciate handmade products as well as the creative process behind them; an opportunity not only to purchase items but also to see how they are crafted with dedication and professionalism.

Marina Florentina is one of the artisans who gave a live demonstration of her craft: basket weaving using plant fibres. With her hands and great care, she wove the base of a basket from banana tree fibre while being interviewed: “When you give people all the information about the entire process and what it truly involves, that’s when their expressions change. Furthermore, I think it is very important for people to have the fibre in their hands; it is when they touch the material that their perspective on our work changes".

Silvia Marín (PP), a councillor from the government team, emphasised that craftsmanship is not just “a way of earning a living”, but also “about maintaining and creating traditions”. “We have seen how esparto grass is worked and how ceramics are made. It is impressive to see people with such talent and, above all, passion for the crafts they produce themselves”, added the councillor from the Mijas Town Hall, who, through the Department of Tourism, is collaborating with this initiative promoted by the Mijas Craft Association to mark European Craft Days.

Showcasing their work

Participating artisans, such as Liana Popa, welcomed these types of activities which allow them to raise awareness of their trade. “We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity and hope it continues to be held every year. Celebrating the European Artistic Craft Days is a pleasure and attracts a large audience”, said the artisan.

It was not only the artisans who were grateful for the initiative, but the visitors too. “It’s very, very beautiful work. It’s a pleasure to watch them working”, said Eduardo García, one of the attendees, with admiration. Ángela Lobato was also captivated by another stall. “I was looking at this lady’s designs and I loved them. They’re really lovely”, she remarked while browsing a display of handmade earrings. Indeed, the products exhibited by the craftspeople sparked the interest of locals and tourists alike, many of whom did not hesitate to pick up a souvenir.

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