The Vice-Presidency of the Government, through the Regional Centre for Handicrafts (CRAA), promotes a Creative Residency on the island of São Jorge from March 15.
This initiative is aimed at the innovation and repositioning of weaving on São Jorge. It acknowledges the value of a quality craft production whose origin has been certified since 2001 and, as such, is part of the cultural heritage to be preserved.
The "Creative Residency" project, now in its sixth edition, intends to promote and innovate regional handicrafts by encouraging the creation of new products that ensure the sustainability of artisans' work so that they may reach new markets, in addition to the traditional ones.
On the other hand, it contributes to the dissemination of techniques, materials and products developed by designers and artisans, creating a dynamics between traditional knowledge and design.
In this context, the Regional Centre for Handicrafts has invited textile designer Paula Caria, whose work is recognised nationally and internationally. She has created several fashion collections together with the craft cooperative "As Capuchinhas." This is a craft production unit dedicated to the manufacturing of products made from "burel" wool (traditional Portuguese wool fabric).
Paula Caria will work together with the artisans of Senhora da Encarnação craft cooperative, focusing on the creation, quality and differentiation of some of the most relevant Azorean weaving products.