Barcelos (Portugal) is a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art since 2017. The city has continued developing a wide range of activities and programmes to support the vitality and sustainability of its cultural sector, in particular the craft sector via promoting and advocating its importance at both local and international levels.

On the occasion of Craftsman’s Day celebrated each year on 19 March, the city brought forth various celebratory activities as part of a social media campaign that highlighted its vibrant craft and folk art scene, the know-how, and creativity of its local artisans, notably through a dedicated video titled “We Create Hope”. The campaign was also the occasion for the city to reiterate its longstanding engagement for local artisans and keep the spirit of craftsmanship alive, despite the ongoing challenges due to the pandemic.

While honoring its crafts community and improving its visibility, the video also aims to further raise awareness on the different challenges faced by city’s artisans and creators, notably on their livelihood, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through this video, the city also recognizes and supports the key value of cultural and creative assets, both for its inhabitants and its local tourism, and further advocates for its safeguarding and transmission to younger generations.