Homo Faber 2018 showcased the talent of more than 400 master artisans working in Europe today. Its 16 exhibition spaces displayed around 900 outstanding examples of fine craftsmanship, showing the public the value that craftsmanship brings to transportation, fashion, interior design, art restoration, luxury goods and simple everyday objects. More than 90 artisans worked live on site, demonstrating their fascinating skills and techniques to visitors, from wood carving and embroidery to gem sculpting and fore-edge painting.
“Thank you for the most intelligent and profound experience.
We feel honoured to visit such a beautifully curated
and represented exhibition of artisans.”
blackvisuallondon, Instagram
Homo Faber 2018 was an inspiring meeting place for those looking to shape the future of craftsmanship. Individuals, universities and organisations came together to exchange ideas, while the next generation of talent was nurtured through the Young Ambassador programme. Students of applied arts and design from all over Europe, these 105 Young Ambassadors were at the heart of Homo Faber, sharing their knowledge and passion with visitors and drawing inspiration from the exhibition for their future careers.
“The Young Ambassadors were outstanding,
so helpful, and their knowledge and enthusiasm was incredible.
They have a very bright future.”
Kevin Grey, silversmith and participating artisan, Instagram
Find out more about the 16 incredible exhibition spaces that featured in Homo Faber 2018 and experience the finest French craftsmanship, exquisite contemporary haute couture, artistic photographs of Venetian workshops, exclusive collaborations between designers and artisans, stunning objects made by Europe’s best artist-artisans and much, much more.
“What an amazing experience!”
jrlaw66, Instagram
Watch these beautiful films and get a close-up view of the stunning objects,
rich materials and fascinating skills showcased at Homo Faber 2018.
During Homo Faber 2018 artisans, designers and curators took part in more than 40 talks and debates in the beautiful Lo Squero conference hall. These dynamic and fascinating sessions explored the challenges faced by craftsmanship and debated what can be done to overcome them as we seek to craft a more human future.
Hear how the strong craft tradition in Asia presents a growing challenge for European craftsmanship.
A review of a workshop about wood, mud and mosaic, undertaken in Venice with students of craft, design and architecture.
Guillaume Martini: A discussion of digital craftsmanship in the context of the virtual reality experience in ‘Singular Talents’.
Hear how craftsmanship can inspire conceptual fashion and fashion exhibition-making.
See all the best moments from Homo Faber 2018 in our photo gallery.