One of the biggest crafts fairs in the world, Expoartesanías is an annual gathering of top artisans from all over the country. You can not only see how some of the products were made, you can also pick up some unusual and hand-crafted gifts. As the fair reaches its final days, we take a look at some of the highlights.
Pavilion showcasing the top 40 artisans, selected for their high-quality work made using traditional methods.
Designer Blanca Lia uses her jewellery to highlight the importance of nature and represent endangered animals in Colombia. The Guacamaya’s body is made with Chochos seeds and egg shells.
Related: Expoartesanías, the handicraft fair in Bogotá
Not only are these bracelets beautiful, each one tells a story.
San Jacinto is well known for its craftwork, especially its hammocks. If you are in Cartagena de Indias, you can take a tour to San Jacinto, which is just two hours away by bus. Look out for the logo you can see in the picture – it’s a certificate of origin that guarantees you’re buying the real deal.
Filigree jewellery from Mompox, Bolívar department.
Victims of the conflict are using traditional crafts to produce new design proposals and build new lives.
Ximena explained that this work symbolises all of Mother Earth. Grey and black represent the earth, water, and nature. Red reflects the power of volcanoes.
The technique of tamo de trigo originated in Nariño and involves painstakingly plaiting and transforming wheat stems into these beautiful finished works.
Moda Viva is an initiative managed by Artesanias de Colombia in which fashion designers, artisans and entrepreneurs work together to share their knowledge and produce innovative new products.
Children will love these animal-themed musical instruments.
Expoartesanías is on at Corferias until December 19.
By Diana Lorena González