Meet the Esteemed Judges of the 9th International Fajr Handicrafts Festival!

Meet the Esteemed Judges of the 9th International Fajr Handicrafts Festival!

The 9th International Fajr Handicrafts Festival, known as Sarv-e Simin, is making waves in the art world with its esteemed panel of judges and evaluators. This festival, a celebration of traditional craftsmanship, not only showcases the rich heritage of Iranian artisans but also encourages international collaboration in the field of handicrafts.

Recently, the festival announced its distinguished panel of judges, which includes notable international figures such as:

  • Baby Jurmawati from Indonesia
  • Roxana Amarilla from Argentina
  • Sandip Kumar from India
  • Sitthichai Smanchat from Thailand

These judges represent the World Crafts Council and bring a wealth of experience to the festival. They will be joined by a panel of respected Iranian experts, including:

  • Ardeshir Mojarad Takestani – Veteran in Persian miniature
  • Mohammad Taqi Ashouri – Faculty member at the University of Art
  • Mohammad Hassan Golchinpour – Expert in metalwork
  • Mohammad Reza Sharifzadeh – Professor of visual arts
  • Ardeshir Mirmangereh – Former deputy of visual arts at the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance
  • Mehdi Amraei – University faculty member
  • Zhila Rassam Arabzadeh – Handicrafts expert
  • Mehdi Mohammadi – Head of the handicrafts department at Soore University
  • Arash Heydarian – Active participant in the handmade carpet and handicrafts sector

The evaluation process for the submissions is being conducted electronically, with 13 judges actively assessing the artworks that have reached the final stage since Friday. Ultimately, six outstanding works will be selected for recognition.

Maryam Jalali-Dehkordi, the deputy minister of handicrafts at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, revealed that over 7,000 artworks were submitted to the festival’s secretariat. From these, 200 pieces were selected for further evaluation, with only a limited number to be awarded. She emphasized that the evaluation process is entirely transparent and based on clearly defined criteria.

Jalali further noted the involvement of judges with expertise in marketing, administration, and academia, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the handicrafts chain. In recent years, the Sarv-e Simin trophy has gained significant international recognition, and selected works will be featured in upcoming handicrafts auctions.

This year’s festival introduces a new initiative: the “People’s Choice” award. This award will be determined through online voting, allowing the public to participate in selecting the most outstanding artworks. Seyyed Amin Sanei Mehri, the executive secretary of the Sarv-e Simin festival, explained that this new feature aims to enhance public engagement and appreciation for handicrafts.

Visitors to the exhibitions can cast their votes using QR codes available at the exhibits or through the festival’s website at fajr.mcth.ir. The artwork receiving the most votes will be announced during the festival’s closing ceremony, where the artist will also be honored. This initiative is designed to promote handicrafts and raise public awareness in this vibrant field.

The Sarv-e Simin Handicrafts Festival is being held at the Sa’dabad Cultural-Historical Complex and will continue until Monday, February 24. Out of a total of 8,173 submissions, 7,974 entries originated from 4,378 Iranian artists, while 198 entries were submitted by artists from 20 different countries, including Tajikistan, Afghanistan, France, Thailand, the UK, India, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. Notably, Tajikistan had the highest number of entries among international participants, while Isfahan and Shiraz were the leading contributors from Iran.

According to the organizers, the 9th International Fajr Festival of Handicrafts is poised to be a major cultural event, fostering international exchange and celebrating Iran’s rich artistic heritage. The festival aims to highlight traditional skills that have been passed down through generations and inspire future artisans to embrace these time-honored practices, thereby creating new economic opportunities for craftsmen.

Experts in the field emphasize that each Iranian handicraft is more than just a product; it encapsulates a narrative of history, artistry, and cultural pride, passed down through generations of dedicated artisans. Current data from the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts reveals that Iran’s annual handicraft exports are approximately $250 million, along with another $250 million in informal “suitcase” exports. This underscores a significant growth opportunity in a global market for handicrafts valued at $770 billion.

Additionally, a selection of 13 cities and three villages in Iran has been registered by the World Council of Handicrafts as “world cities of handicrafts.” This recognition not only enhances the visibility of Iran’s craftsmanship but also encourages local artisans to continue their traditions while exploring new markets.

Similar Posts

  • Discover Urmia Museum: Iran’s Hidden Gem of Historical Treasures

    The Urmia Museum, established in 1967, is a significant cultural institution with over 26,000 artifacts, showcasing human history from the 7th millennium BC to the Qajar era. Notable exhibits include three ancient Urartian cuneiform tablets, which offer insights into the advanced Urartian civilization. The museum also features a hall dedicated to anthropological items, such as handwritten Qurans and traditional handicrafts, reflecting the region’s diverse cultures. It plays a crucial role in cultural preservation through education, research, and conservation efforts, making it an essential destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

  • Discover 3,000 Unique Artifacts Showcased at Northeast Iran Museums This Nowruz!

    This Nowruz, North Khorasan will showcase around 3,000 historical artifacts across six museums, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. The museums include the Jajarm Anthropology Museum and the Mofakham Complex Museum. Additionally, three significant historical sites—the Rivi Archaeological Site, the ancient city of Belqeys, and the historical fabric of Royin Village—will be open for exploration. Last year, the region attracted 5,817 visitors, and officials expect even greater interest this year. Khorasan, known as the “Land of the Sun,” has a deep historical significance, having been part of ancient empires.

  • Minister Unveils Three Exciting Tourism Projects During Khuzestan Visit

    During a recent visit by Seyyed Reza Salehi Amiri, Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, three new tourism projects were inaugurated in Khuzestan, enhancing its appeal and hospitality infrastructure. The projects include two hotels in Ahvaz and Izeh and the second phase of a tourism complex in Dezful, collectively offering 86 rooms, 190 beds, an indoor recreational center, a restaurant, and a cinema. Additionally, a collaboration with the Iran Tourism Development Corporation aims to establish three more facilities. Highlighting Khuzestan’s rich cultural heritage, the minister visited UNESCO sites, emphasizing the region’s potential as a significant tourist destination.

  • Iran Unveils Landmark National Document to Preserve Cultural Heritage

    Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian recently introduced the National Document for Cultural Heritage, developed through collaboration across scientific, cultural, and executive sectors. Approved in September 2025, this framework aims to reinforce Iranian-Islamic identity, enhance heritage preservation awareness, and promote cultural diplomacy. It emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage in fostering national identity, creativity, and sustainable development. The document outlines strategies for recognizing, managing, and preserving cultural assets, while linking Iran’s rich historical legacy to contemporary society. Ultimately, it positions Iran as a steward of its cultural heritage and a contributor to global civilization, fostering national unity and progress.

  • Discover Tabriz: A Culinary Tourism Paradise Awaiting Food Lovers!

    Tabriz, a vibrant city in northwestern Iran, is gaining recognition as a culinary tourism hotspot, celebrated for its rich gastronomic heritage. Visitors can indulge in traditional dishes like kufteh Tabrizi (meatballs) and dolmeh (grape leaf dolmas), each with deep-rooted histories reflecting local artistry. The city’s diverse food culture thrives in homes and markets, where the aromas of fresh bread and spices create an immersive experience. Tabriz’s sweets, such as nougat and Qorabieh, further showcase its culinary legacy. As travelers seek authentic experiences, Tabriz emerges as a must-visit destination for those passionate about food and culture.