Celebrating Craftsmanship: Bianca Scarpari Wins the Insular Craftsmanship Award 2025
This past Sunday, the renowned artisan Bianca Scarpari was honored with the prestigious Insular Craftsmanship Award 2025 during the closing ceremony of the XXXVI Insular Craft Fair in Fuerteventura. Taking place over four vibrant days in the charming Plaza de Antigua, the fair has become a staple celebration of local craftsmanship and artistic expression.
A Memorable Ceremony
The award ceremony attracted a large audience, all eager to witness Scarpari’s recognition. The event was enlivened by performances from the celebrated music group Los Gofiones, providing a rich backdrop to the proceedings. Esteemed figures in attendance included Lola García, the President of the Cabildo; Matías Peña, the Mayor of Antigua; Nereida Brito, the President of Colectivo Mafasca; and Lolina Negrín, the Insular Councilor for Craftsmanship. Their presence signified the importance of custodianship and promotion of local arts and culture.
Bianca Scarpari: A Beacon of Almazuelas Craft
Bianca Scarpari is not just an award recipient; she is a stalwart of the almazuelas craft, regularly showcasing her exquisite quilts, tapestries, and textiles at the fair. Reflecting on her honor, Bianca expressed, “I receive this award with much humility, as a push to continue creating and sewing stories that speak of this land and its people.” Her heartfelt speech also acknowledged the support she receives from her surroundings—her students, peers, and the broader artisan community. “The hands that create also heal, and what is made with love always finds its place,” she added, emphasizing the emotional connection inherent in her craft.
Recognition of Commitment and Craftsmanship
Lola García recognized Scarpari’s two-decade dedication to Fuerteventura, praising her professionalism and commitment to preserving local traditions. Furthermore, Lolina Negrín highlighted Scarpari’s involvement in promoting craftsmanship through initiatives like ‘EnRedArte,’ a formative project aimed at enhancing artistic skills within the community. This recognition underscores not only Scarpari’s talent but also her role in nurturing the next generation of artisans.
Community and Collaboration
The Ayuntamiento de Antigua, a key co-organizer of the fair alongside Colectivo Mafasca, extended its congratulations to Scarpari. They commended her humanity and her unwavering willingness to assist others. In a special gesture, fellow artisans presented her with a collective gift, reinforcing the sense of camaraderie within the crafting community.
A Successful Fair
The XXXVI edition of the Insular Craft Fair was deemed a resounding success. Close to 200 artisans from throughout the islands showcased their work, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere bolstered by high public attendance. The event featured a rich program that included educational workshops, folk gatherings, and live music performances by artists such as Silvestre Ramírez, Paco Perera, and Los Gofiones, creating a tapestry of culture and community engagement.
Lola García’s comments encapsulated the essence of the weekend, describing it as “a weekend of folklore, tradition, and craftsmanship.” She expressed gratitude to all entities, volunteers, and security personnel whose collaborative efforts helped realize this edition of the fair.
The Spirit of Tradition Lives On
Bianca Scarpari’s recognition at the Insular Craftsmanship Award serves not only as a celebration of her individual talent but also as a testament to the rich artistic heritage of Fuerteventura. The fair continues to provide a platform for artisans to connect, share their skills, and showcase the unique culture of the islands, ensuring that traditions are kept alive for future generations.
