TEHRAN - An exhibition of handicrafts and traditional arts has opened in the southern city of Kerman.

The opening ceremony was attended by a host of artists and artisans, local tourism officials, and members of Kerman’s Chamber of Commerce at the Kerman Pars Hotel on Friday.

The three-day exhibition highlights Kerman’s vibrant craft traditions under the theme “Handcrafted Creations that Touch Your Heart.”

Featuring the work of 90 talented artists and craftspeople from across Kerman province, the three-day event aims to celebrate and promote the rich heritage of the region’s handmade arts.

A notable aspect of the exhibition is its focus on the commercial potential of traditional crafts. In addition to the display and sale of items, the event includes discussions and workshops on branding and marketing strategies for artisans.

According to organizers, visitors may purchase a wide array of exquisite handcrafted items, ranging from intricate textiles and ceramics to unique metalwork and jewelry. “The exhibition not only serves as a showcase for these beautiful creations but also emphasizes the importance of commercializing and branding these traditional crafts to ensure their sustainability in modern markets.”

The Handicrafts Association of Kerman, which organized the event, boasts over 400 members skilled in more than 40 different disciplines of handicrafts and traditional arts. This diversity is reflected in the exhibition, offering a comprehensive view of the region’s artistic prowess and cultural legacy.

The Kerman region is something of a cultural melting pot, blending various regional cultures over time. It is also home to rich tourist spots and historical sites, including bazaars, mosques, caravanserais and ruins of ancient urban areas.

It is bounded by the provinces of Fars in the west, Yazd in the north, South Khorasan in the northeast, Sistan-Baluchestan in the east, and Hormozgan in the south. It includes the southern part of the central Iranian desert, the Dasht-e Lut.

AM