INTERNATIONAL HANDICRAFTS PROJECT

Tradition that comes to life in the hands of the craftsman is a form of expression where labor meets aesthetics... The Traditional Handicrafts documentary is not limited to shootings in just three countries, but is being prepared as a comprehensive production that reveals the historical, cultural and human value that handicrafts carry all over the world.

The documentary, based on interviews and field shootings conducted in the Netherlands, North Macedonia and Turkey, not only documents professions that are on the verge of extinction in different geographies, but also tells how these crafts have shaped human culture and the memory of societies for centuries. The film emphasizes that each profession is not only a source of income, but also a way of life, an identity and a carrier of culture.

Drawing attention to the fact that people are seeking to turn to manual labor again in today's digital world, and how handicrafts nourish human virtues such as patience, attention and productivity in individuals, the documentary also reveals what kind of a career and life alternative these crafts can offer to young generations. In addition, the importance of handicrafts in terms of sustainable production understanding that is compatible with nature is handled with a strong narrative in the film.

Prepared by the Tradesmen and Craftsmen Association with professional equipment, 4K image quality, original music, quality sound recording and drone footage, the film appeals to today's audience with its short and impressive structure. Traditional Handicrafts, which will be presented with English subtitles, aims to bring different cultures together in the common ground of craftsmanship.

The first screening of the documentary will be held in Ankara in 2026 as part of the closing program of the project. This gala will not only be a film screening; it will also be a meaningful meeting where the universal value of artistry, cultural heritage and handicraft will be remembered again.

Traditional Handicrafts is a visual heritage work that documents the past, narrates the present and inspires the future.

The jury of the competition will include officials from project partner institutions, as well as master photographers and experts in the field of traditional handicrafts. Thus, a strong and multi-faceted perspective will be provided in terms of both artistic and craftsmanship during the evaluation process.

The competition is planned to start in 2026; various awards will be given, including 1st, 2nd, 3rd and exhibition. The winning works will be included in a photo catalogue to be printed and a digital exhibition will be prepared with these works. In addition, the award ceremony of the competition will be held in Ankara, the capital of Turkey, as part of the closing program of the project.

Thanks to this competition:

- Awareness of traditional handicrafts will increase and the number of individuals interested in these arts will increase.
- By promoting handicrafts specific to different geographies, an environment of cultural interaction and mutual inspiration will be created.

Photographers will have the opportunity to produce original and meaningful works and gain international recognition.

This competition, where handicraft meets aesthetics, is not only an art event; it is also a meaningful way to protect cultural heritage, show respect to masters and contribute to visual arts. Details for the competition, which is expected to attract participation from all over the world, will be announced in the future.