The 37th Edition of the Feria Insular de Antigua: A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Culture
This year, the picturesque island of Fuerteventura is playing host to the dynamic Feria Insular de Antigua, where over 200 artisans from all eight Canary Islands converge to showcase their talents. With 40 different crafts represented, this annual event immerses visitors in a sensory journey of live craftsmanship. It’s not just a fair; it’s a celebration of the rich history, identity, and traditions of the Canarian people.
A Feast for the Senses
As you wander through the vibrant stalls, you’ll find yourself enveloped in a tapestry of colors, textures, and sounds. Artisans utilize materials like wood, clay, palm, textiles, metal, paint, and stone to create pieces that resonate with both cultural significance and artistic vision. The fair has already seen an impressive turnout, with crowds flocking to celebrate the artistic spirit of Fuerteventura.
Innovating Tradition: Maria Teresa Piris Piris
Among the artisans is Maria Teresa Piris Piris, a passionate creative who has made a name for herself at the fair. This year, she has brought an array of handmade backpacks, bags, fanny packs, and wallets crafted from colorful fabrics. “I’ve introduced bags made from blue denim this time because they’re popular and on-trend,” she shares. Encouraged by her success, she has expanded her booth, aiming to ensure that no piece remains hidden. For Maria Teresa, the fair is not just a marketplace; it’s a platform to showcase her work and connect with the community.
Sustainable Creativity: Carolina De Juan
From Morro Jable, newcomer Carolina De Juan adds a fresh touch to this year’s fair with her innovative designs made from surf materials—ropes and fabrics from kitesurfing and windsurfing gear. “Although it’s my first time at the Feria de Antigua, I’m struck by how special this event is, brimming with interested visitors,” she expresses. Her eco-conscious clients are often tourists who fall in love with her colorful, durable bags and hats. The blend of sustainability and style in her pieces resonates with today’s environmentally-aware consumers.
Tradition Meets Modernity: Ángel González
Ángel González from La Gomera is no stranger to the fair, having attended for the past 15 years. Known for his sturdy wooden mortars, drums, and clocks, he emphasizes the importance of traditional craftsmanship. “I bring items that last a lifetime, created with time-honored techniques using robust materials,” he explains. For Ángel, the fair is not just about selling; it’s an opportunity to connect with fellow artisans and learn from each other.
Celebrating Folklore: Fran Santana
In this vibrant mix, Fran Santana stands out with his focus on traditional Canarian weaving. Representing Retama Artesanía Textil, he showcases an array of fabrics, sashes, and skirts—each a homage to the rich Canarian folklore. Fran describes his participation as a joyful experience filled with a festive atmosphere, where the audience’s enthusiasm fuels his passion for traditional craftsmanship.
Jewels of the Fair: Viviana Vassetti
Viviana Vassetti, an extraordinary jewelry artisan hailing from Lanzarote, showcases her delicately designed collections at the fair. “I find the variety and quality of this year’s fair to be exceptional,” she remarks. Her booth gleams with meticulously crafted rings, earrings, and necklaces, all presented in a way that accentuates their beauty. Viviana acknowledges the appreciation her unique and modern designs receive, reflecting a broader trend of merging tradition with contemporary aesthetics.
Celebrating Excellence: The Insular Craftsmanship Award
As the fair draws to a close on May 10, the excitement builds towards the prestigious Insular Craftsmanship Award 2026, to be presented to Bernard Glauser. A Swiss jeweler and long-time island resident since 1996, Bernard’s work is characterized by simplicity and a deep appreciation for nature. The presentation will feature live music, adding to the celebratory atmosphere with performances from La Palma’s Taburiente, Los Cantadores, Sirinoke, and the Banda del Cuco.
This year’s Feria Insular de Antigua stands as a vibrant testament to the creativity and resilience of Canarian artisans, serving not only as a marketplace but as a cultural gathering that enriches both the local community and the visitors who come to experience it.
