by Chené Koscielny
Once upon a time we didn’t rely on technology for everything…
In this day and age of über-technology, it is fascinating to learn about the work and traditions of artisans – who take their time to make the most beautiful things by hand.
This weekend you can see artisans at work during demonstrations and workshops at the popular Journées des Métiers d’Art Geneva (JEMA) in Geneva.
Wig-makers, gilders, taxidermist and more
Meet the craftsmen whose painstaking job it is to restore ancient books in the Geneva library or the restorers of musical instruments. Wig-makers, knife-makers, watchmakers, gilders, carvers, leather craftsmen, a taxidermist – (if you don’t know what this is, Google it!) and many more are among the traditional artisans who will be demonstrating and showcasing their work this weekend at the Journées des métiers d’art Geneva. Find out what it takes to produce beautiful handmade costumes for theatre shows. Watch a stone sculptor or quilt-maker at work, discover how an exhibition at the Museum of Ethnography in Geneva is conceived and planned from scratch. This is also your chance to take a peek behind the scenes at the Grand Théâtre de Geneve.
History of Journees des Métiers d’Art Geneva (JEMA)
Launched in France in 2002, this now very popular European-wide initiative started out as a bi-annual event and grew into an annual event in 19 countries across Europe, including Switzerland. Geneva has been participating since 2012.
When:
From 31 March till 2nd of April 2017.
Where:
The Journées des Métiers d’Art Geneva workshops and exhibitions take place at various venues across the city, including museums and libraries and for the first time this year also at the BFM (Bâtiment des Forces Motrices) where 30 artisans will be displaying their work.
The best way to find your way around is to click on the map on the JEMA website, next click on the venue and then click on info to get the information about each event. Unfortunately the site is only available in German and French at the moment, but the organisers have promised to look into having an English translation for next year’s event. Don’t let that put you off though, it’s an opportunity to improve your French.
NOTE: Some events have to be pre-booked, but other events are open to all.
For further information:
Visit the Journées des Métiers d’Art Genèva website for more information www.metiersdart.ch.
