17 Ecuadorian artisans qualified for Unesco Prize

This is the second edition of the prize, the Andean Region Edition. It aims to establish standards of quality, preserve and maintain the Andean identity translated in the craft and introduce new artisanal products on the international market.

The rating was made by a jury composed by the painter Ramón Piaguaje, from Sucumbíos; Patrick Leon, Professor of the Faculty of design at the University of Azuay; the ceramist Eduardo Vega from Cuenca and Cecilia Duque of Colombia ,craft expert.

The applicant’s works should meet two conditions: respect for the environment and social responsibility.

The winners are: Saul Benalcázar Torres and Jesús Ortega, in elaborate wood; Paul Cordero Ortiz and Héctor José Buitrón, in ceramics. There are 5 artisans in natural fibres: Juan Fernando Hidalgo, Franco Matailo, Homero Ortega and sons, María Martha Pinchupa and Eleine Garzón.

In metals: María Fernanda Cisneros, Guido Sotomayor and Liz Ordóñez. The list is completed with elaborate textiles and fabrics: José Manuel Toainga, Gladys Rodas Ulloa, Carmen Orellana, Sarum Makchay and The Cuenca Embroidery Center.