CRAFTOUR

Follow the events of January 29-30, 2026 online

Innovation and the future for European arts and crafts

What is CRAFTOUR?

CRAFTOUR is a European initiative that brings together projects and partners committed to the enhancement and innovation of artistic crafts.
The goal is to build a collaborative ecosystem capable of addressing the challenges of the sector, promoting sustainability, digitization and training, and strengthening the role of crafts in European culture and economy.

The event will also feature Artex, Centre for the artistic and traditional Tuscan crafts, as a partner in two projects that are part of CRAFTOUR: Tracks4Crafts (Horizon Europe 2023 – 2027) and Reskilling Crafts (Erasmus + 2025 – 2027).

Upcoming events.

📅 January 29, 2026 – Scientific Conference.

University of Antwerp & online

• Time: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. CET

• Where: University of Antwerp and streaming

Focus

• Evolving definitions of craft and authenticity

• Digital transformation, artificial intelligence and transmission of skills

• Sustainability, economic models and business resilience

The scientific conference on Jan. 29 offers a full day of discussion and insight into arts and crafts, with interactive panel discussions, keynote speeches and presentations of research papers dedicated to the five pillars of CRAFTOUR.
A unique opportunity to explore key themes and new perspectives, enhanced by an exhibition of posters, photographs and films celebrating the creativity and value of artisan crafts.

Elisa Guidi, Artex coordinator, will speak as a panelist in the last panel discussion to discuss the organizational transformation and resilience of the craft sector, addressing topics such as sustainability, innovative business models, and practical challenges in adopting green practices.

👉 Check out the agenda and register to follow the Scientific Conference online

📅 January 30, 2026 – General Conference.

European Parliament, Brussels & online

• Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. CET

• Location: European Parliament – Altiero Spinelli Building, Spinelli Room 1G2 and online

Focus

• Connections between crafts and other sectors: fashion, design, tourism, historic buildings

• Impact of crafts on cultural heritage, territorial identity, economic development, SMEs, employment and sustainability

The January 30 conference stems from CRAFTOUR’s Policy Recommendations and reflections that emerged during the Roundtable with the European Commission.
The event will bring together leading figures, institutions and organizations in the craft sector, with the goal of maximizing impact and visibility. Prominent voices from the craft world and beyond will take the stage to share experiences, visions and strategies for revitalizing and revitalizing the European craft ecosystem.

📝 Registration required by January 26, 12:00 p.m.
⚠️ Limited places in attendance (max. 100 people)

👉 Check out the agenda and register to follow the General Conference online