The Fiji Arts Council received a $9050 sponsorship from the Ministry of Industry and Trade to host the ‘Western Crafts Fair’ in Nadi this week.
This annual event gives an opportunity to local, established and emerging artists and crafters to display their talents and skills.
It also contributes towards the preservation of culture and tradition.
The Western Crafts Fair from November 28 to November 30 at Koroivolu Park in Nadi is organised by the Fiji Crafts Society and Fiji Arts Council..
The Ministry for Industry and Trade permanent secretary Shaheen Ali said a major feature of this year’s event would be the handing over of 46 Fijian Crafted licence certificates on the final day of the event by the Minister for Industry and Trade, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
This will bring the total number of crafters licensed under the Fiji Made and Buy Fijian campaign to 66.
The event will also witness crafters receive two major awards, which include the Craftsmanship Awards and the Traditional Contemporary Awards.
“The success of the Fijian Crafted brand is dependent on the support from all stakeholders,” Mr Ali said.
“Government recognises Carpenters Fiji Limited and R.C. Manubhai Limited for partnering with the ministry to promote, preserve and develop our handicrafts sector as well as compliment Fijian Made and Buy Fijian campaign by contributing a combined sum of $5500 towards the total sponsorship.”
The ministry is also partnering with major hotels and resorts around the country as well as Fiji Airways through the promotion of a Fijian Crafted brand video commercial in all its inbound flights.
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