The government delegate in Galicia, Pedro Blanco, visited in Pazos de Borbén (Pontevedra) the basketry workshop of Álvaro Martínez Leiro, winner of the National Handicraft Award of 2023. He was accompanied by the deputy delegate of the Government in Pontevedra, Abel Losada. This award, awarded by the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, seeks to recognize the work of artisans, their creativity and capacity for innovation.
During his visit, he was able to get to know at first hand the work he does in this workshop, where he merges traditional techniques with contemporary designs, thus preserving the ancient traditions of the basketry.
Pedro Blanco showed his support and that of the Government of Spain for this artisanal work that promotes innovation, design and the ability to adapt to the purchased. “It is important to highlight the effort and dedication of artisans such as Álvaro Martínez Leiro, who were able to keep an ancestral tradition alive and take it to new levels of recognition and prestige.”
In addition, the delegate was able to know the professional trajectory of this artisan, who has been dedicated to the art of basket making for more than two decades. Álvaro Martínez Leiro is the third Galician to receive the National Handicraft Award in its history. His work was fundamental in redefining Galician craftsmanship, intertwining the past with the present through his creations. “Galician craftsmanship is a treasure that we must preserve and promote, merging innovation with our traditions to keep our identity as Galicians alive,” said the delegate.
Galician craftsmanship achieved a special prominence in the National Awards of Craftsmanship 2023, with three winners in different categories and a fourth finalist mention. The delegate considers that this demonstrates the quality and talent of the Galician artisans, as well as the commitment of the Government to continue supporting and promoting this important sector.
The Inés Rír&Co weaving workshop, in the category of Product, and the Xunta de Galicia, in the category Promotion for Public Entities, for 'Corazón de la Artesanía' received an award. Además, la cestera Julia da Cal, de O Porriño, quedó finalista en la categoría Emprendimiento.