MEMBER ORGANISATIONS
The WCCE network is currently comprised of 37 member organisations from 23 different European countries.
Read more about each organisation below or scan the map to see where they are located.
ACAB / Arts & Craft Association Bornholm
Bornholm is renowned for its large number of skilled craft artists. They are instrumental in profiling an area devoted to quality and aesthetics where artists are inspired and feel free to pursue their craft, yet also an area with a strong sense of artistic community. Since 2002 Bornholm’s best professional craftsmen have joined together in an association of the applied arts called ACAB. ACAB is a quality-censored association where each craftsman is judged by an external committee before she or he is accepted as a member.
Arts Council Azerbaijan
Arts Council Azerbaijan is a non-governmental organisation, established in 2006. Its main mission is to promote culture and art, as well as to create an environment and infrastructure for the development of creative industries. As a member of the International Council of Arts Network that is active in various countries around the world, Arts Council Azerbaijan are committed to advancing and promoting Azerbaijani creativity, art and culture through numerous social and public projects. Working closely with government agencies, diplomatic missions and the media to carry out various projects and initiatives, Arts Council Azerbaijan offer full coverage of the most exciting local events by spreading information; providing opportunities for networking and sharing experiences through a programme of exhibitions, workshops, lectures, talks, discussions and film screenings and offering development and professional opportunities to young and emerging artists, musicians, artisans and others.
Associação de Artesãos Serra da Estrela
AASE is dedicated to the development of Crafts in an integrated perspective, combining what can be called Certified Crafts (Artisanal Production Units and Artisan Charter) and Locally Based Products. AASE has contributed to the development of the Central Region of Portugal in all its aspects: employment, entrepreneurship, training, culture, internationalization; support for the development of various Portuguese artisans associations; support for business start-ups; support for the promotion of local and artisanal activities in the physical space at its disposal, which gives free of charge to people and companies in need to exhibit their work. It also promotes thematic seminars around the areas: commercial, tourist and craft.
ADXTUR- Agência Desenvolvimento Turístico das Aldeias do Xisto
ADXTUR brings together the public and private desires of the Portugal region, which are reflected in the shared management of a brand, the joint promotion of a territory, the creation of wealth through the provision of tourist services and, finally, the preservation of culture and heritage of the rural world.
AiCC – Italian Association of Ceramic Cities
The Italian Association of Ceramic Cities (AiCC) is a non-profit association composed by 45 member municipalities recognised as having an « ancient and established ceramic tradition ». AiCC’s principal aim isto protect and support artistic and artisan ceramics by promoting collaboration between its members and carrying out numerous projects in the institutional, promotional, marketing and networking fields. Over the years AiCC has also promoted the creation of further European associations of Ceramic Cities.
AiCC presents itself as an efficient reality, confirming its institutional role as a coordinator of realities of different needs and geographical location, united by a strong ceramic identity.
Artex- Centre for Artistic & Traditional Handicrafts in Tuscany
Artex is the Centre for Artistic and Traditional Craftsmanship in Tuscany and promotes innovation and development of artistic and traditional handicrafts. Artex was created in 1987 by the CNA and Confartigianato crafts associations; over the years it has developed and managed projects for the improvement of crafts enterprises and their manufactures, gaining a unique experience in this sector.
Ateliers d’Art de France
As the leading professional artistic craftsmanship network, Ateliers d’Art de France, federates a community of over 6,000 professionals, craftsmen, artists and art workshops throughout France. Its action is deployed via 4 key priorities:
1. Representing and defending the artistic craftsmanship sector
2. Promoting the image of artistic craftsmanship
3. Contributing towards the economic development of associated professionals
4. Offering support to members
Azores Crafts and Design Center (CADA)
The Azores Crafts and Design Center (CADA) is the executive service of the Regional Government responsible for implementing the regional policies for the development and valorization of Azorean handicrafts. These policies include the certification of traditional handicraft products, the recognition of craft production units, the implementation of professional training, and the coordination of multifunctional initiatives that promote the Azorean-certified handicraft.
Bundesverband Kunsthandwerk Deutschland (BK)
The German Crafts Association (BK) is the umbrella organization for professional craftspersons in Germany, working as an unaffiliated, nonpartisan organization. BK is a national organization. Its main objective is representing its members’ interests in the economic and cultural promotion of contemporary arts and crafts. BK currently counts craftspersons, designers and free-lance artists as members. Membership admission is determined by the selection committee and is based on the quality of work submitted by the artist.
BeCraft
BeCraft is a professional association valuing artists in the field of applied arts. The gallery is a showcase for Belgian designers (from the regions of Wallonia and Brussels) working in ceramics, glass, jewellery, styling, paper, wood, textiles and design. BeCraft’s mission is promote, inform and train and is also open to national and international creators thanks to the triennials it organizes each year.
The Crafts Council
The Crafts Council champions high-quality contemporary craft practice nationally and internationally through exhibitions, publications including Crafts magazine, education programmes, and curating the United Kingdom’s national collection. It aims to build a strong economy and infrastructure for contemporary craft and is a member of the World Crafts Council.
CEARTE
CEARTE is a Vocational Training Centre and, since 1986, has worked for the sector of Arts and Crafts, heritage, creative industries, and small companies, promoting employment, the valuation of territories, skills acquisition, professional evolution, innovation for artisanal production units and, in general, the qualification of the Portuguese.
Centre for Folk Art Production – ÚĽUV
ÚĽUV functions as a nationwide documentation and information centre for folk art production in Slovakia and encourages the revival of Slovak designs with an emphasis on craft, tradition, and creativity. It organises craft classes, exhibitions, competitions, festivals and promotes the work of masterful craftsmen and designers who are seeking inspiration in traditional crafts.
Consorci de Comerç, Artesania i Moda
The Consortium of Commerce, Crafts and Fashion brings together in a specialized entity the management of policies regarding the promotion of commerce, crafts and fashion of Catalonia. Entrusted to the Department of Business and Employment, the general purpose of promoting and promoting the commercial sector, craftsmanship, and support for Catalan fashion, with the aim of promoting competitiveness and the quality of these sectors, nationally and internationally.
Crafts Council Netherlands
Crafts Council Nederland (CCNL, 2013) is the all-encompassing platform for contemporary craft. It is the place where art, fashion, design and heritage unite and where craftsmanship is nurtured and passed on to a new generation. CCNL works together with all key players within the crafts domain. As researcher. As initiator. As catalyst. As guide. As concept developer. As unifier.
Craft Scotland
Craft Scotland is the national development agency supporting makers and promoting craft. Makers are the heart of what they do, championing diverse and high-quality contemporary craft. They help people learn about, appreciate and buy craft, promoting the contribution of craft to Scotland’s cultural, economic and social well-being. Through their exhibitions and events programmes, digital platforms and strategic partnerships, Craft Scotland provide leadership for the sector.
Cyprus Handicraft Service
The Cyprus Handicrafts Service is located on Athalassa Avenue in Nicosia and houses several workshops in the fields of embroidery, weaving, woodwork, pottery, metalwork, general handicrafts, leatherwork and costume making. Locals and tourists alike visit the workshops daily. A large giftshop is in operation on the premises as well as two in other cities. Courses in various crafts and specific techniques are offered for members of the public wishing to receive an introduction to a skill or improve on an existing one.
Danish Crafts & Design Association
Danish Crafts & Design Association (DKoD) is a national organization for professional designers and craftsmen. Their aim is to support high quality practice, professional collaborations and networking. This is achieved through various activities such as public events, seminars, fairs and international exhibitions. DKoD was established in 1976.
De Mains De Maîtres Luxembourg
The association aims to support and promote Luxembourgish craftsmanship. One mission is to establish the Fine Contemporary Craft Biennial initiated in 2016 by HRH Princess Stephanie. It exhibits Luxembourgish creators and build bridges with European countries. The association also develops a cross-border programme of exhibitions. Committed to encourage and preserve the transmission of artisanal know-how, the association delivers scholarships for excellence.
Design & Crafts Council of Ireland
The Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCoI), which is headquartered in Kilkenny, is the main champion of the design and craft industry in Ireland, fostering its growth and commercial strength, communicating its unique identity and stimulating quality design, innovation and competitiveness. Our vision is that Irish design and craft is recognised and valued worldwide for its excellence in craftsmanship, innovation and marketing.
Düzköy Public Education Center
The center, was established in 1992 and is a lifelong learning institution affiliated with the Ministry of National Education. Its core purpose is to provide vocational training and skills development through programmes and certificates of competence related to forgotten handicrafts as well as new crafts and product development. Furthermore, it provides opportunities for networking through exhibitions, workshops and conferences in support of local crafts. Through these actions, the center guides young and talented artisans and craftspeople to establish themselves in a professional and entrepreneurial capacity.
EOI-Fundesarte
Fundesarte is since 1981 the leading institution in the promotion and development of Spanish craft enterprises as part of the EOI Foundation (School for Industrial Organisation), entity attached to the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism. A priority of their programme is to promote, value and communicate the quality of craft products and the sustainability of its production processes.
The Finnish Association of Designers Ornamo
The Finnish Association of Designers Ornamo, established in 1911, is an expert organisation in the field of design. Ornamo advances the profession of designers and promotes the role of design in society. They endeavour to support you in your career, whether you are a designer or an artist, or looking for inspiring employment opportunities. Their activities rely on a community principle: working for the benefit of each other and the entire profession.
The Finnish Craft Organisation
Founded in 1913, the Taitoliitto Association is responsible for organizing common affairs, developing industry and communications, as well as domestic and international connections. The magazine TAITO, published by the association, has been published continuously since 1907. It is the task of Taitoliitto to support regional skill associations by organizing development work, launching product development and managing state aids and communications. In addition to this, Taitoliitto’s important task is to act as a sensation of change in society and as a advocate and expert in the craft culture.
Fondo Plastico
FONDO PLASTICO is an entrepreneurial reality that enhances and promotes High Italian Craftsmanship, its authenticity and excellence, the cultural and artistic value of its companies, of the people involved and, consequently, of the territory that hosts them. We do this through activities ranging from events, to training and consultancy, up to the development of projects dedicated to corporate tourism. We believe in “A new artisan vision”, because it is a way to make the Applied Arts sector (especially for the new generations) is to interact with the new ones communication tools and create new transversal strategies.
Georgian Arts and Culture Center
Georgian Arts and Culture Centre works for the preservation, development and sustainable use of heritage crafts and cultural industries in Georgia since 1995; supporting innovative approach GACC contributes to economic viability of cultural sector through studies, trainings, marketing and international exchanges. The Center also conducts preservation of tangible and intangible heritage and gallery activities.
Georgian Heritage Craft Association
Georgian Heritage Craft Association is a membership organization, which acts to safeguard Georgian heritage crafts traditions and works towards a sustainable framework for sector’s development in the future. GHCA aims to create a networking platform for individuals, craftspeople, organizations and guilds, enhancing sector’s economic potential, raising the competitiveness of Georgian Heritage Crafts products.
Handicraft Chamber of Ukraine
The Handicraft Chamber of Ukraine is an all-Ukrainian non-governmental organization that has been working at the national and international levels since 2009 to protect the rights and interests of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the field of production and service.
Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA)
The Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA) is state-run, under the aegis of the French Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Economy. The INMA’s role is to promote the artistic crafts and support their future development, in particular by developing a unique expertise in the sector.
The LOEWE FOUNDATION (Affiliate Members)
The LOEWE FOUNDATION was established as a private cultural foundation in 1988 by Enrique Loewe Lynch, a fourth-generation member of LOEWE’s founding family. The Foundation’s mission is to promote creativity, educational programs and to safeguard heritage in the fields of poetry, dance, photography, art and craft.
Mad’ in Europe
European craftsmen in areas such as wood, metal, glass, ceramic, textile, stone crafts, music instruments and restoration are the guardians of European diversity, cultural heritage and know how. They are now facing business troubles because of their small visibility within an offer of cheaper and more accessible products. Mad’in Europe has started its activity at the end of 2013 with an objective to bring sustainable and concrete support to these micro-businesses, through different actions. Mad’in Europe is connecting the European art-crafts community with international potential users: private consumers, architects, designers, interior designers and musicians.
Malta Crafts Foundation
Malta Crafts Foundation aims to enable the preservation, appreciation and sustainability of Maltese artisanal products and skills. The Foundation’s strategy is formed on three main pillars – Promotion, Education and Innovation. Its mission is to generate national and international awareness towards Maltese artisanship through educative and promotional efforts, and to stimulate innovation by nurturing an ecosystem which allows artisans to embrace current challenges and transform them into opportunities to ensure the sustainability of the artisan sector, particularly traditional crafts.
Michelangelo Foundation (Affiliate Member)
The Michelangelo Foundation is an international non-profit organisation based in Geneva, Switzerland, which celebrates and preserves master craftsmanship and strengthens its connection to the world of design. It aims to help people rediscover the ability of the human hand to create, and support those doing it best: the exceptional contemporary European master artisans using long-held traditions, skills and knowledge to make beautiful objects of lasting value.
Norske Kunsthåndverkere
The Norwegian Association for Arts and Crafts (NK) is a membership organization working to promote and support contemporary crafts nationally and internationally. NK currently encompasses 830 professional practicing artists and makers. NK’s main objective is to strengthen the arenas for contemporary crafts and improve the general working conditions for artist and makers.
Norwegian Craft
Norwegian Crafts’ principal aim is to strengthen the position of contemporary crafts from Norway internationally. Objectives are: to raise worldwide awareness of contemporary craft from Norway; to be a vital contributor in the development of international craft theory; to create debate and participate in new arenas of society; to improve the financial situation of Norwegian craft artists through market development initiatives; to support Norwegian artists, curators and writers within the craft field in their international activities; to ensure continuous participation from Norway in influential international arenas and; to facilitate collaboration and exchange between Norwegian and international craft artists, curators, critics and other agents in the field.
Oficio y arte, Organización de Artesanos de España (OAE)
Composed by 21 craftspeople, associations and federations in Spain although it also allows individual members and collaborators. As a whole it represents around 1,000 craft businesses located in the whole of the country. In order to fulfill its mission of promoting and representing craft in Spain, it publishes the quarterly printed magazine Oficioyarte (Craft and Art) and the digital magazine www.oficioyarte.info among other tools.
The Swedish Crafts Centre
The Swedish Crafts Centre’s mission is to promote the makers and their work. They work to strengthen the craft network and the makers role in the cultural industries. The Swedish Crafts Centre has offices in four Swedish cities: Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö and informs makers about business and learning opportunities, arranges workshops, seminars and other learning events for the craft artists and the field of craft.