In a mass-market culture, the festival showcases unique pieces with greater meaning.

Hand-sewn bags, leather shoes, high-end knives, metal brooches, handcrafted furnitures: you’ll find them all together in a series of events around Vancouver for the craft lovers. For the first time this May, Crafted Vancouver will introduce multiple craft disciplines through a wide array of events showcasing established and emerging makers (both local and international) exhibiting an unique point of view.The inaugural theme is “Made to Discover,” which is exactly what people can expect throughout 25 days of exhibitions, film nights, private walks, studio tours, workshops, artist talks, and also dining and tasting events. Long-time collectors will be able to uncover new talents in the industry; new craft appreciators are more than welcome as well. “Crafted Vancouver will show our local community the value of craft and encourage them to actively become part of the process,” says Carrie Ross, the festival’s director. “Our aim is always to celebrate unique pieces in smaller quantities with greater meaning.” Participants will be able to visit Jay Miron’s studio.

Highlights of the festival include:

Balvenie After Hours Series: Jay Miron StudioWednesday, May 16 at Jay Miron StudioThe Balvenie Distillery hosts a tasting at furniture designer (and ex-BMX pro) Miron’s studio to accompany a short talk and demonstration of his selection of hand tools.Korean Master Ceramic WorkshopSaturday, May 19 to Monday, May 21 at Performance WorksIn collaborations with Icheon Potters Association of Korea, six Korean master ceramicists will host a three-day workshop exploring the Korean techniques. (Attendees will even bring home handmade Korean tools to continue their practice at home.)Meet the MakersFriday, May 18 to Sunday, May 20 at Heritage HallMaster craftmakers converge to offer an up-close look at the skill, knowledge and creative wisdom that goes into each artisan’s unique work.Crafted InteriorsSunday, May 20 to Thursday, May 24 at The Pipe Shop at the ShipyardsThis five-day exhibition will promote the use of handcrafted work and furniture as objects for everyday use at home.

Crafted Vancouver

May 4 to 28Various locationscraftedvancouver.com

Jessica Palacio

Jessica Palacio