"The Makers and Makers," a work that recognizes the work of those who make poetry with their hands
On April 23, the University of Azuay and its publishing house presented the book "The Makers: An Approach to the Reality of Cuenca's Artisans" (Los Hacedores y Hacedoras: An Approach to the Reality of Cuenca's Artisans). This event is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.
The event was attended by authorities, faculty, administrative staff, and students from our university community, CIDAP officials, officials and members of various city institutions, artisans, and the general public.
The presented book is an insight into the deeply complex human reality of the lives of artisans in Cuenca. Beyond their craft, this text explores the lives, dreams, hopes, and frustrations of these creators. It provides insight and vivid stories about who they are, where they are, and what they do. It speaks to us about their satisfactions and motivations, learning, continuing their craft, vulnerability, economic reality, and expectations for the future.
The event began with remarks from Francisco Salgado, rector of the University of Azuay, who expressed his joy and mentioned that today the work of those who create poetry with their hands is recognized. This work reflects the life stories of many artisans who have contributed to the city for many years.
Gabriela Vásquez, director of the Inter-American Center for Popular Arts, addressed the audience, noting that she is joining in this important celebration that highlights the constant work artisans do daily. She also acknowledged the importance of this research and how it will serve as a record to highlight their role in our society.
The presentation of the work was led by Genoveva Malo, academic vice-rector of our institution, who mentioned in her speech that this wonderful book is an insight into the deeply complex human reality of the lives of artisans in Cuenca. This work is a call to knowledge and recognition, to sensitivity and commitment to those who create with beauty and need to be a strong part of the region's productive and economic system.
The book launch was led by Gabriela Eljuri, coordinator of the School of Anthropology, who mentioned that this project began in 2021 and that over the years, the life stories of more than 104 artisans from our city have been revealed. Hacedores y Hacedoras (Makers and Makers) was born as a way of understanding and being in the world; the arts of making as that infinite capacity to transform one thing into another.
Once the work was completed, certificates were presented to the artisans who participated in this important project.
