Large businesses try to save old crafts from loosing their foothold, showing how they can offer long term careers both innovative and creative.

I just stumbled upon the article "The artisans in danger of disappearing" (written by Katie Hope) on the Metal Arts Guild of Canada's Facebook page. I was intrigued instantly, as when looking towards which funding may be available for us as a business, I'm always questioning what is innovation today, especially when working within an ancient craft. Check it out: http://www.bbc.com/news/business-31791937  It's really great; here's a couple of quotes:

"ECCIA president Michael Ward says 80% of people look at a product's label first to see where it has been made...

"If we look at what's driving the luxury market; it's about craftmanship, originality and tradition. It's all about adding value. How many stitches in a Fendi bag, how long does it take to train a weaver, for example, are all hugely important in terms of the product proposition..."

"Our challenge is to show how far these trades are linked to innovation and creativity. They are not just hollow reproductions of old forms. They benefit from the knowledge of the past, but are completely in tune with the present.""