The Azores Handicrafts was distinguished with two honourable mentions at FIA - International Craft Fair that runs until Sunday in Lisbon, where the works of 12 handicraft production units of the archipelago are featured.
 
The Vice-Presidency of the Government, through the Regional Centre for Handicrafts (CRAA), promotes the participation of the Azores in the event. Artisans may compete for the FIA Prize in the "Best Traditional Handicraft Piece" and "Best Contemporary Handicraft Piece" categories.
 
Artisan Isabel Silva Melo, from São Miguel, was awarded an honourable mention in the "Best Traditional Handicraft Piece" category.
 
She was distinguished with the piece titled "Holy Spirit Coronation" that was created using stoneware, beech wood and acrylic glass.
 
In turn, artisan Adolfo Mendonça, from Terceira was awarded for his piece titled "Reef," produced in faience, in the "Best Contemporary Handicraft Piece" category.
 
Moreover, artisans Fátima Freitas, from Pico, and António Barreto, from São Miguel, have also competed for the "Best Traditional Handicraft Piece" category a piece in patchwork and a "lapinha" (sea-themed) nativity scene, respectively.
 
The FIA Prize is an annual initiative intended to distinguish Portuguese artisans, privileging their technical and professional skills as well as their aesthetic values. It also plays a key role in the social and cultural recognition of all artisans.
 
The awarded pieces will be on display in a prominent place at FIA until the closing of the event.