The Government of the Azores, through the Regional Centre for Handicrafts (CRAA) will organise a series of training courses for regional artisans covering several techniques in September and October.
The existence of Santo Amaro Crafts School makes the island of Pico a prime location for the organisation of these courses and the installation of crafts residences since the school has the capacity to house participants. In turn, the trainers master various techniques such as fish scale, wheat straw, embroidery and puppetry.
With the purpose of increasing the visibility of activities of handicrafts activities as well as the renewal, promotion and dissemination of the Azores Handicrafts, the Governments promotes handicrafts courses with special emphasis on wheat straw and lace techniques. With a two-month duration (September and October), this initiative aims to foster intercultural experiences, through the exchange of experiences, stimulate the contact with other realities and acquire knowledge on Pico's regional handicrafts. Participating artisans will have the opportunity to develop their creativity together with other artisans.
The Regional Centre for Handicrafts also intends that artisans contribute to the promotion and improvement of Santo Amaro Crafts School.
In the end of the course, the CRAA will make a final presentation and promote the marketing of regional handicrafts products with the organisation of exhibitions throughout the country, workshops, conferences and other events.