The World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC AISBL) celebrated the official launch of the Encyclopedia of Latin American Crafts [https://craftencyclopedia.com] in Mexico City on October 22, 2024, marking a momentous occasion for craft preservation and intercultural appreciation. This event, part of the WCC AISBL’s Diamond Jubilee celebrating 60 years of dedicated service to the world of crafts, highlighted the Council’s commitment to documenting and preserving the Latin American region's rich cultural heritage. Hosted by Fomento Cultural Citibanamex, this evening brought together distinguished figures in the crafts world, artisans, and cultural enthusiasts.
The event featured a carefully curated program that began with a warm welcome from Fomento Cultural Citibanamex’s Director, Mrs. Cándida Fernández de Calderón, followed by a commemorative video honoring the World Crafts Council’s six-decade legacy. The program then moved to opening remarks by Mr. Saad al-Qaddumi, President of the World Crafts Council AISBL and Chair of the Encyclopedia of Latin American Crafts. Mr. Saad paid tribute to his late mother, Dr. Ghada Hijjawi-Qaddumi, whose passion and vision led to the creation of the Encyclopedia.
In his address, Mr. Saad expressed his pride in continuing his mother’s legacy through this project, emphasizing that the Encyclopedia of Latin American Crafts aims to protect and promote the traditional crafts unique to Latin America, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of their cultural and economic importance. Mr. Saad emphasized the long-term mission of the Ghada Hijjawi-Qaddumi for Arts and Handicrafts Foundation (GHQF), which he founded, in preserving the traditional crafts of five global regions—Asia Pacific, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and North America.
Dr. Kevin Murray, WCC AISBL Vice President and Coordinating Editor of the Encyclopedia, presented the editorial perspective, explaining the rigorous research process and dedication that went into compiling this landmark work. Consultant Mr. Indrasen Vencatachellum shared his reflections, highlighting the Encyclopedia’s value as a resource that honors craft knowledge passed down through generations. This reference aims to inspire both artisans and scholars, serving as a vital tool for the preservation of traditional crafts.
A highlight of the evening was a special tribute video to late Dr. Ghada Hijjawi-Qaddumi, presented by her grandson, Tareq al-Qaddumi. This tribute highlighted her lifelong dedication to craft preservation, academic rigor, and commitment to cultural heritage—a legacy now perpetuated by her family and the WCC AISBL.
Artisans were also honored at the event, receiving certificates presented by Mr. Saad al-Qaddumi and Dr. Kevin Murray in recognition of their mastery and dedication to their craft. The honored artisans included:
Ms. Ana Maria Contreras
Ms. Camelia Ramos Zamora
Mr. Guillermo Pascual
Mr. José Cruz Guillén
Mr. José Manuel Ruiz
Mr. Leonardo Linares
Mr. Marco Antonio Miranda
Mr. Odilón Marmolejo
Mr. Oscar Soteno
Mr. Pedro Meza
Mr. Pedro Ortega
Mr. René Ángeles Navarro
Mr. Roberto Abraham Ruiz
During the event Mr. Saad expressed gratitude to the Editorial Board, including Dr. Kevin Murray, Mr. Indrasen Vencatachellum, Regional Editors Ms. Rosa María Rojas Navarrete and Ms. Cecilia Duque Duque, as well as the writers and WCC AISBL/GHQF Secretariat. He extended special thanks to Prof. Somesh Singh, the project’s website developer, whose technical expertise helped make the Encyclopedia accessible to a global audience. Additionally, Mr. Saad expressed appreciation for Mrs. Cándida Fernández and her team, whose support made Mexico the ideal venue for launching this profound cultural initiative.
A copy of the speeches delivered during the event is available at this link:
The event concluded with a cocktail reception, where guests were invited to connect and discuss shared ambitions for the craft community. This launch marks the second volume in WCC’s ambitious global series, following the Encyclopedia of Crafts in the Asia Pacific Region, and sets a foundation for future publications that will document and celebrate craft traditions across the globe. Through the Encyclopedia of Latin American Crafts, the WCC AISBL continues its mission of promoting intercultural dialogue, safeguarding cultural heritage, and nurturing traditional craftsmanship for generations to come.
The Encyclopedia of Latin American Crafts offers a comprehensive insight into Latin America’s diverse crafts traditions, acting as both a scholarly reference and an educational tool. Fully funded by the Ghada Hijjawi-Qaddumi for Arts and Handicrafts Foundation (GHQF), this resource promotes the appreciation of Latin American artistry, spotlighting its cultural significance and creating a bridge for intercultural exchange.
The WCC AISBL remains dedicated to creating spaces where traditional craftsmanship thrives, fostering global collaboration, and cultivating a deeper appreciation for the world’s rich cultural heritage. The Encyclopedia of Latin American Crafts embodies this vision and serves as a lasting tribute to Dr. Ghada Hijjawi-Qaddumi’s legacy and to the artisans of Latin America.
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