Artisans were awarded for products such as textiles, food & beverage, glass works and ceramics
The award ceremony for the ‘Premju Ġieħ l-Artiġjanat Malti’ (Prizes for Maltese Craftsmanship), organised by the Malta Crafts Foundation, was held yesterday evening at the Lower Barrakka Gardens in Valletta.
Awards were divided into three categories for the work of artisans produced throughout the year of 2023, namely Artisanal products, Inspiring artisanship and innovation through collaboration, and Special recognitions.
The Artisanal products category was an abundant one, with sub-categories and associated winners for various types of crafts including textiles, food & beverage as well as glass works and ceramics. The actual products contesting for this category were on display at St James’ Cavalier in Valletta last month, also giving people the chance to vote for their favourite artisanal products from each sub-category, leading to the People’s Choice Awards, which were also awarded yesterday.
Artisans at I+A Ltd, Antoine Vella, and Christian Bezzina from the initiative Weavature, involving the craft of weaving, won first place in the second category for their work towards inspiring artisanship and innovation through collaboration.
Special recognitions were also awarded, including Maker of the Year granted to Mark Borg for his work as a goldsmith, silversmith, and filigree artist, and the Lifetime Achievement given to Alfred Camilleri Cauchi, who is renowned for his works on religious statues.
The full list of winners and runners-up is available on the Malta Crafts Foundation Facebook page.
Congratulations to all the participating artisans for their dedication to local crafts!