The LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark event in the world of contemporary craft. With 30 finalists selected from 18 countries, the competition highlights the extraordinary talent and innovation of artisans across the globe. The fiThe LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize has once again proven itself as a global beacon for craftsmanship, innovation, and artistry with the announcement of its 30 finalists for the 2025 edition.

This prestigious prize, now in its eighth year, continues to elevate the status of craft as a vital and dynamic art form, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. The 2025 finalists, representing 18 countries, were selected from an astounding4,600 submissions by artisans from 133 countries and regions.

Their works, which span a diverse range of disciplines and materials, will be exhibited at the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid from May 30 to June29, 2025. The exhibition will culminate in the announcement of the grand prize winner, who will receive €50,000 and the honor of being recognized as a trailblazer in contemporary craft.

A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Innovation

The LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize was establishedin 2016 to celebrate the artistic and technical excellence of artisans worldwide. It seeks to highlight the cultural significance of craft, which often exists at the intersection of art, design, and functionality. The prize is open to artisans of all ages and backgrounds, encouraging submissions that demonstrate originality, creativity, and a deep understanding of materials and techniques. By showcasing the work of both established and emerging artists, the prize fosters a dialogue between tradition and innovation, ensuring that craft remains a vibrant and evolving field.

The 2025 finalists exemplify this mission, presenting works that are not only technically masterful but also deeply conceptual and thought-provoking. From ceramics to textiles, woodwork to metalwork, the pieces on display reflect a wide array of cultural influences, personal narratives, and artistic visions. What unites these diverse works is a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what craft can achieve, whether through the reinterpretation of traditional methods or the exploration of new materials and technologies.

The 2025 Finalists: A Global Tapestry of Creativity

The 30 finalists for the 2025 LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize represent a rich tapestry of cultures, disciplines, and techniques. Their works are a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship and its ability to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. Here are some highlights from this year’s selection:

Ceramics: A Medium of Endless Possibilities

Ceramics has long been a cornerstone of craft, and the 2025 finalists demonstrate the limitless potential of this ancient medium. Yuki Matsumoto (Japan) presents a series of hand-built clay vessels that explore the interplay between form and function. Inspired by the natural landscapes of his homeland, Matsumoto’s works feature intricate textures and organic shapes that evoke the beauty of nature.

In contrast, Ana Paula Fuentes (Mexico) employs traditional ceramic techniques to create bold, sculptural pieces that challenge conventional notions of pottery. Her work, which often incorporates elements of indigenous Mexican art, is a celebration of her cultural heritage and a reflection on the role of craft in contemporary society.

Textiles: Weaving Stories of Identity and Tradition

Textiles are another prominent feature of the 2025 exhibition, with several finalists using this medium to explore themes of identity, memory, and tradition. Noura Al Sayeh (Lebanon) creates intricate tapestries that blend traditional weaving techniques with modern design. Her work is deeply rooted in the history and culture of the Middle East, yet it speaks to universal themes of human connection and resilience.

Emma Wilhelmsson (Sweden) takes a more experimental approach, using textiles to create immersive installations that challenge the viewer’s perception of space and material. Her work often incorporates recycled fabrics, highlighting the importance of sustainability in contemporary craft.

Wood and Furniture: Crafting Functionality and Beauty

The art of woodworking is well-represented among the 2025 finalists, with several artists creating furniture and sculptural pieces that are as functional as they are beautiful. Thomas Thwaites (UK) designs minimalist wooden furniture that emphasizes clean lines and natural materials. His work is a homage to the principles of modernism, yet it also reflects a deep respect for the material’s inherent qualities.

María López (Spain) takes a more sculptural approach, creating wooden installations that explore the relationship between humans and nature. Her work often incorporates elements of traditional Spanish craftsmanship, reimagined in a contemporary context.

Metal and Jewelry: The Art of Precision and Glamour

Metalwork and jewelry are also prominent in the 2025 exhibition, with several finalists pushing the boundaries of these disciplines. Kazuhiro Saito (Japan) creates intricate metal sculptures that combine traditional Japanese techniques with modern design. His work is characterized by its precision and attention to detail, as well as its exploration of themes such as impermanence and transformation.

Sofia Björkman (Finland) designs contemporary jewelry that blurs the line between art and adornment. Her pieces, often made from recycled metals and unconventional materials, challenge traditional notions of luxury while emphasizing sustainability. Björkman’s work is a reflection of her commitment to environmental consciousness and her belief in the transformative power of craft.

The Role of the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize in Shaping the Future of Craft

The LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize is more than just a competition; it is a platform that celebrates the ingenuity and dedication of artisans while fostering a global appreciation for craftsmanship. By bringing together artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, the prize encourages cross-cultural exchange and collaboration, pushing the boundaries of what craft can achieve.

One of the key strengths of the prize is its ability to highlight the importance of craft in addressing contemporary issues. Many of the 2025 finalists use their work to explore themes such as sustainability, identity, and globalization, demonstrating the relevance of craft in today’s world. Through their innovative use of materials and techniques, these artists are redefining the role of craft in contemporary art and design.

The prize also serves as a reminder of the enduring value of handmade objects in an increasingly digital world. In a time when mass production dominates, the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize celebrates the human touch and the unique qualities that can only be achieved through manual craftsmanship. It reminds us of the importance of preserving traditional skills while encouraging experimentation and innovation.

The Exhibition at the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza

The 2025 LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize exhibition at the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid is set to be a highlight of the cultural calendar. The museum, renowned for its collection of fine art, provides a fitting backdrop for the finalists’ works, creating a dialogue between historical masterpieces and contemporary craft.

The exhibition will offer visitors a chance to experience the diversity and ingenuity of the finalists’ works up close. From intricate ceramics to bold textiles, from minimalist furniture to avant-garde jewelry, the pieces on display will showcase the breadth and depth of contemporary craft. Curated to emphasize the stories behind each work, the exhibition will provide insight into the artists’ creative processes, inspirations, and the cultural contexts that shape their practice.

In addition to the exhibition, the LOEWE FOUNDATION will host a series of events, including artist talks, workshops, and panel discussions. These events will provide a platform for dialogue between artists, curators, and the public, fostering a deeper understanding of the role of craft in contemporary society.

The Legacy of the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize

Since its inceptionin 2016, the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize has had a profound impact on the world of craft. By recognizing and supporting the work of exceptional artisans, the prize has helped to elevate the status of craft as a legitimate and vital art form. It has also provided a platform for artists to gain international recognition, opening up new opportunities for collaboration and growth.

The 2025 edition of the prize builds on this legacy, showcasing the extraordinary talent and innovation of artisans from around the world. It is a testament to the enduring power of craft to inspire, challenge, and connectus. As the winner of the 2025 LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize is announced, we are reminded of the importance of supporting and celebrating the artisans who enrich our world with their creativity and skill.

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