Craftsmanship in the Canary Islands is deeply rooted in their aboriginal heritage and multiple cultural influences derived from colonisation. A range of objects made with artisan processes have acquired their own identity with the passage of time, associated with the, more often than not, harsh daily life reality of its inhabitants.
All the crafts are linked to people’s everyday lives, to the culture of the peasant in general and, above all, it has always been considered a domestic task since the craftsmen used to make the appliances for their daily use of those raw materials that nature made available.
Mud, wood, stone and bone, became objects of all kinds for the development of life in the house and the countryside. Transformed by imagination and skilful hands, these raw materials are now a integral part of the Canary Islands’ traditional culture and history.
Although the manufacturing of work tools has declined, craftsmen continue to follow their vocation and their art. Today, their work is celebrated in crafts fairs in many points of all the islands, giving us all the opportunity not only to admire their work, but also to be able to adquire museum worthy pieces.
Ceramics is probably the popular craft in the Canary Islands. However, there are many different techniques and arts such as embroidery; stonework; traditional carpentry; basketwork (cane, wicker and other); musical instruments; bone handle knives; blacksmith and forge; cages; millinery; wood and stone carving; textiles and traditional costumes, among others.
