Celebrating craftsmanship: The Loewe Foundation Craft Prize 2023
Last month, the vibrant city of Madrid played host to the much-anticipated Loewe Foundation Craft Prize ceremony, an event that has become synonymous with excellence in modern craftsmanship since its inception in 2016. Held in the picturesque courtyard of the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, the evening was a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the enduring spirit of artisanship.
A gathering of visionaries
The atmosphere was electric as finalists and their guests mingled with the new creative directors of Loewe, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez. Esteemed jury members, including the renowned architect Frida Escobedo and Abraham Thomas, curator at The Met, added to the event’s prestige. The evening began with a delightful cocktail and tapas hour, allowing attendees to engage in meaningful conversations about art and design.
Recognizing artistic merit
The Loewe Foundation Craft Prize aims to honor originality and artistic vision in craftsmanship. Open to anyone over 18 working in a craft-based profession, the prize offers a substantial reward of 50,000 euros, alongside two special mentions of 25,000 euros each. The selection process is rigorous, with a panel of experts evaluating submissions based on criteria such as material excellence, innovative value, and the artist’s unique signature.
Showcasing talent and creativity
As the ceremony unfolded, attendees were invited to explore the creations of the 30 finalists. Each artisan proudly stood beside their work, sharing insights into their creative processes and inspirations. Among the notable pieces was Nifemi Marcus-Bello’s “TM Bench with Bowl,” which garnered a special mention. The artist reflected on his journey of understanding the appeal of his work, emphasizing the importance of personal connection to art.
Honoring the winners
The highlight of the evening came when Sheila Loewe and Pedro Almodóvar presented the top award. Almodóvar, with his characteristic charm, urged the audience to appreciate the depth of the artworks on display. The coveted prize was awarded to Japanese sculptor Kunimasa Aoki for his piece “Realm of Living Things 19.” Aoki’s work, crafted using ancestral techniques, exemplifies the fusion of tradition and innovation, taking three months to complete.
In a moment of humility, Aoki expressed gratitude to his fellow participants, acknowledging their role in inspiring his future endeavors. His candid remarks about his inspirations, including a love for motorbikes and classic films, added a personal touch to the evening.
The Loewe Foundation Craft Prize continues to shine a spotlight on the importance of craftsmanship in contemporary art, fostering a community that values creativity and innovation. As the event concluded, it was clear that the spirit of artistry and the pursuit of excellence remain at the heart of this prestigious award.