Loewe Craft Prize 2022 has revealed the names of its 30 finalists who will be vying for the esteemed award. The winner of the competition will be unveiled on June 30 at the opening of the exhibition, which will take place at the Seoul Museum of Craft Art in Seoul, South Korea. The selection process involved a rigorous evaluation of 3,100 entries submitted by artists hailing from 116 different countries. The chosen works exemplify a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary updates, showcasing the use of ancient techniques combined with innovative materials.
The purpose of the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize is to acknowledge artists who contribute to the advancement of contemporary craftsmanship, while paying homage to the brand’s legacy as a collective craft workshop established in Madrid in 1846. The shortlisted finalists hail from 15 countries and engage in various mediums including ceramics, woodwork, textiles, leatherwork, basketry, glassblowing, metalwork, jewellery-making, and lacquer art. The judging panel, comprised of 11 experts, meticulously evaluated each submission in order to select the most exceptional pieces.
Anatxu Zabalbeascoa, chairwoman of the jury, expressed delight in witnessing the diverse range of finalists from five continents in this year’s Craft Prize. She emphasized that it reflects the broad spectrum of contemporary craftsmanship, highlighting the connections forged between different disciplines, materials, technologies, and pre-technologies. By embracing all craft specializations, the prize underscores a cosmopolitan approach that views exceptional craftsmanship as timeless and deeply rooted in tradition.
The recipient of the Loewe Craft Prize 2022 will be awarded a prize of €50,000. The winner will be determined by a jury consisting of 13 distinguished figures from the realms of design, architecture, and museum curatorship. The announcement will be made during the exhibition’s opening event in Seoul on June 30. From July 1 to 30, 2022, the Seoul Museum of Craft Art, renowned for its dedication to promoting Korean crafts, will host the exhibition, allowing visitors to admire the extraordinary works of art created by the finalists.
The roster of selected artists comprises exceptionally talented individuals from all corners of the globe, including Spanish artist Trinidad Contreras, Brazilian artist Domingos Tótora, and Chilean artist Fernando Casasempere. Their works, alongside those of the other finalists, will be on display during the exhibition, providing a remarkable opportunity to witness the beauty and ingenuity of contemporary craftsmanship.
The Loewe Craft Prize 2022 has garnered worldwide attention and participation, underscoring the significance of traditional craftsmanship in the modern world. As the event heads towards its climax, anticipation builds for the announcement of the winner and the recognition of excellence in contemporary craft. The Loewe Foundation’s unwavering commitment to promoting and celebrating craft is evident through this prestigious prize, which serves as a platform for artisans to showcase their skills and contribute to the evolution of the craft landscape.
Useful links:
1. Loewe Craft Prize Official Website
2. Seoul Museum of Craft Art Official Website
