We were invited by QRER to structure and curate the creative residency for the project “Algarve Craft & Food – Create | Experiment | Internationalise”, fostering collaboration between designers, artisans, and chefs to develop products for hospitality and home use that connect Algarve’s craft traditions with its gastronomy. The selection of artisans followed specific criteria – expertise in tableware techniques, openness to innovation, and willingness to co-create. Silves stoneware, a local and underutilised material, was a key focus.
Held from 27 April to 10 May 2022, the residency combined collective sessions, hands-on experimentation, and “Conversations with Tasting”, all rooted in the local food culture.The outcome: around 12 unique product proposals and a rich exchange between disciplines, proving the power of collaboration in shaping innovative and meaningful design.
The project was promoted by the Algarve Tourism Board, Tertúlia Algarvia – Centre for Knowledge on Traditional Algarve Culture and Food, QRER – Cooperative for the Development of Low-Density Territories, and the Algarve Tourism Association. https://www.qrer.pt/
