Grand Opening of Kerman’s 17th Handicrafts Exhibition: A Celebration of Artistry and Culture!
The 17th Kerman’s Handicrafts Exhibition has officially commenced at the Kerman International Exhibitions permanent venue, located in the southeast region of Iran. This vibrant event, which opened on a Tuesday evening, has attracted a multitude of visitors, including the inspector from the Cultural Heritage Ministry’s Handicrafts Department, the governor-general, and other notable figures in the arts community. Artists from various provinces have gathered to showcase their exceptional skills and creativity.
Parvaneh Heydari, the deputy provincial handicrafts chief, emphasized the significance of handicrafts as cultural and economically valuable activities. She remarked, “Handicrafts are cultural and value-generating activities, and we have all the raw materials and producers in the country. We can associate and help the economy with handicrafts in the current situation.”
Heydari urged local officials in Kerman to support the artisans, stating, “We are with the artisans in the Handicrafts Department to take steps for market making and selling the products.” This call for support highlights the need for collaboration between state institutions and the private sector to foster the growth of handicrafts in the region.
Furthermore, Morteza Nikrou, the head of Kerman Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts, and Tourism Department, noted that this year marks the first time artists from all over Iran have participated in the exhibition. He mentioned that the exhibition features over 280 booths, with 80 booths dedicated to Kerman province. Nikrou added, “Artists from 16 world handicraft cities of our country are also present at the exhibition.”
In addition to the current exhibition, Nikrou announced plans for another handicraft event scheduled for the eve of Nowruz (March 2026), following the success of last year’s exhibition held in Rafsanjan. The 17th Kerman Handicraft Exhibition will continue until November 7, with visiting hours from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.
Kerman city, renowned for its rich heritage, is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, stunning gardens, and ancient monuments, making it a living museum that showcases various periods of Iranian history. This cultural richness adds to the significance of the handicrafts exhibition, which plays a vital role in preserving and promoting traditional Iranian artistry.
Located in the southeast of Iran, Kerman province is bordered by Fars to the west, Yazd to the north, South Khorasan to the northeast, Sistan-Baluchestan to the east, and Hormozgan to the south. The province encompasses part of the central Iranian desert, including the Lut Desert, known for its unique landscapes.
Kerman is one of Iran’s largest provinces, covering an area exceeding 180,000 square kilometers. Its diverse climate ranges from warm and semi-dry to extremely dry, moderate, and cold, offering a rich environment for both agriculture and handicrafts.
- Exhibition Name: 17th Kerman’s Handicrafts Exhibition
- Location: Kerman International Exhibitions, southeast Iran
- Opening Date: Tuesday evening
- Duration: Until November 7
- Booths: Over 280, with 80 from Kerman province
- Visiting Hours:
- Wednesday: 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Thursday & Friday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Future Events: Handicraft exhibition planned for Nowruz (March 2026)
The exhibition not only highlights the artistic talents of Iranian artisans but also serves as a platform for economic development within the handicrafts sector. By fostering a sense of community and collaboration among artisans and local officials, the Kerman Handicrafts Exhibition aims to elevate the profile of traditional crafts and ensure their viability for future generations.
In conclusion, the 17th Kerman’s Handicrafts Exhibition is a significant event that underscores the importance of cultural heritage and the potential for handicrafts to contribute to the local economy. As the exhibition continues to draw attention, it showcases the rich tapestry of Iranian art and culture, inviting everyone to appreciate the skill and dedication of the artisans involved.
