The Crafter’s Guild braced itself for another year of The Crafter’s Expo. Not only did it generate an electrifying surge of energy but ensured a wholesome platform in support for local businesses. Crafters from Karachi, as well as Lahore, Islamabad, Sukkur, and Bhitshah made their mark at the much awaited show boasting over 160 participants. Exhibiting brands not only featured handmade accessories, jewelry, and art, but also included décor items, unique stationery, gifting pieces, candles, resin art and delicious foods as well.
his year, The Crafter’s Expo hit differently as the sentiments for local made have been a serious focus for consumers across Pakistan. The event itself was an effort to advocate for the ongoing atrocities in Palestine. The theme of red and green along with the symbolic watermelon was recurring across stalls to create awareness and generate funds for relief aid. This year, the event also received support for women and local makers through sponsors and partners the likes of Meezan Bank, Bisconni, Magnus Communications, Jazz Cash, Pakola, National Foods and Olivia.
Visitors flocked from all parts of the city and embraced a sea of Handmade crafts which were not only a soothing sight, but an empowering phenomena of how incredibly talented the community of makers in Pakistan is, and how valuable the essence of this is to the local economy.Several organizations working with children of special needs were given a place to represent crafts by these individuals, as well as organizations working with members of underprivileged communities.
These included SCINOSA, Ghunchey, LEHR by Karachi Down Syndrome Program, Kiran Foundation, Al Furqan Welfare Organization, as well as Parents Voice Association- Ujaala Centre who actually conducted a block printing station in the Maker’s Arena. The Leather Dude curated a series of activities for Leather enthusiasts, as Toy Bricks Pakistan conducted its Lego for Cognitive Play sessions. A clinic, Cast of Minds curated several activities for stress relief and art therapy under the current duress witnessed with media and news.
Another very exciting activity was the glaze your own ceramic piece activity with Clay Biscuits. Children had ball with Craft Bags by Ain throughout the day as Shahkar Crafts conducted mosaic activities. 14 children under 17 were featured in the Young Creatives segment.Five women in food businesses were honored as Hunarmand Khawateen. They were shortlisted in a cohort program in collaboration with MOM preneurs Pakistan. After vetting and interviews these women were given stalls, training and seed money to prepare for the event, in addition to beautiful gift baskets by National Foods to uplift their journey.
The focus was to provide them with an means to build sustainability in their livelihoods through this platform. Most businesses sold out as the space was packed at prime parts of the day with genuine buyers. Some entrants the likes of Folle as well as Wood and Craft were popular with visitors event day. Surely such a feat was only possible through relentless support and belief in community. Many businesses launched at The Crafter’s Expo this year and countless others found home again. Such a massive crowd and phenomenal response in the midst of festival season only proves – Happiness is Handmade!
