Astonishing Craft; The Prizes for 2025 So Far

You may know Loewe as the iconic Spanish luxury fashion house renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship, innovative designs, and deep-rooted heritage. Founded in Madrid in 1846 as a leather-making collective. Loewe has grown into one of the world’s most celebrated luxury brands, blending traditional techniques with modern artistry. Beyond fashion, Loewe is also a passionate advocate for craftsmanship through the Loewe Foundation, which hosts the prestigious Craft Prize each year. In spring 2025, this highly anticipated event will take place in Madrid, shining a spotlight on exceptional artisans from around the globe. Speaking of craft, another exciting moment in the industry just took place. Celebrating the best in wool innovation, the 2025 International Woolmark Prize was awarded. Find out more in Astonishing Craft; The Prizes for 2025 So Far

Image Credit – Fumiki Taguchi: Courtesy Loewe Foundation

The Loewe Foundation recently unveiled the 30 finalists for the 2025 edition, chosen from over 4,600 submissions spanning 133 countries. These artists are redefining craftsmanship by blending time-honoured techniques with cutting-edge creativity. Their extraordinary works will be exhibited at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum in Madrid from May 30 to June 29, 2025, with the grand prize winner who will receive a €50,000 award announced on May 29.

Each finalist brings a unique perspective to their craft, blending heritage techniques with contemporary creativity. Among this year’s standout entries:

• Kobina Adusah (Ghana) presents “I Still Face You,” a mesmerising terracotta series inspired by Akan history and personal iconography.

Image Credit – Courtesy Loewe Foundation

• Kunimasa Aoki (Japan) showcases “Realm of Living Things 19,”. An undeniably dynamic clay piece that pushes the limits of ceramic artistry.

Image Credit – Courtesy Loewe Foundation

Jessica Costa (Brazil) presents ‘Sobejos XII’. Cascading down the wall, pooling where it meets the floor. It was explicitly made using natural Brazilian wool, resin and wood

Image Credit – Courtesy Loewe Foundation

“Year on year, it gives me such pleasure to see the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize provide a platform for extraordinary talent and change the perception of craft internationally. Over the past decade, we have seen the Prize transform lives and careers and build a global community. It is my great privilege to continue my family’s legacy.”

Sheila Loewe, President of the Loewe Foundation

A jury of leading figures from the worlds of design, architecture, and curatorship will select this year’s winner. Including Loewe Creative Director Jonathan Anderson, architect Frida Escobedo, and Japan Folk Crafts Museum Director Naoto Fukasawa

Adding to the brand’s celebration of craftsmanship, Loewe will also present Crafted World Tokyo, a major exhibition that pays tribute to its 179-year legacy of handmade artistry. After debuting in Shanghai in 2024, this time the immersive showcase will arrive in Tokyo’s Harajuku district in March 2025. Highlighting Loewe’s rich history, cultural collaborations, and commitment to craft. Visitors can explore interactive displays, archival pieces, and exclusive collaborations with Japanese artisans.

Image Credit – Agnes Husz: Courtesy Loewe Foundation

Meanwhile, in another landmark celebration of craftsmanship and innovation, Duran Lantink from the Netherlands has been crowned the 2025 International Woolmark Prize winner.

The Woolmark Prize is a global award that highlights the use of merino wool in fashion. Founded in 1953, it supports emerging designers who create innovative and sustainable collections using wool. The prize helps promote merino wool as a high-quality, versatile material in the fashion industry.

Also, Pieter Mulier and Südwolle Group received the inaugural Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation for their visionary work with wool at Alaïa.

In addition to this, the winners were chosen by a prestigious panel of judges led by Donatella Versace. Unveiled at a spectacular live event in Milan, brought to life under the creative direction of IB Kamara.

Image Credit – The Woolmark Company

The Loewe Foundation Craft Prize is more than just a recognition of technical skill; it’s a celebration of the passion, heritage, and artistic innovation behind each piece. If you appreciate art, design, or the beauty of handmade objects, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

If you enjoyed reading Astonishing Craft; The Prizes for 2025 So Far. Why not try: Loewe 2017 Craft Prize Winner or Function: Max Mara Art Prize for Women

Find more information on the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize 2025 here

Find more information on the The Woolmark Company Prize here

.Cent Magazine London, Be Inspired; Get Involved

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