The Chamber of Trades and Crafts of Burgundy Franche-Comté (CMA BFC) hosted, this Monday, December 16, 2024 in Dijon, the grand regional final of the Crafts Prizes. This annual competition highlights the excellence and creativity of the region’s artistic artisans, while promoting a rich and little-known heritage.
A region at the heart of artistic crafts
In Burgundy Franche-Comté, artistic crafts occupy a particular place in the promotion of regional heritage. Stonemason, cabinetmaker, ceramist, jeweler… so many professions which bear witness to unique know-how, transmitted and reinvented over generations. This year, the competition highlighted Contemporary Creative Professions, a theme which inspired works combining tradition and modernity.
Organized in two stages, this competition first saw artisans compete in the departmental qualifications last fall. The eight selected departmental winners were then invited to Dijon to defend their creation in front of a prestigious jury. Made up of passionate artisans and local actors, this jury’s mission was to designate the grand winner of the 2024 Regional Crafts Prize.
« Infinite Love”: an award-winning work for its finesse and symbolism
The prize was awarded to Laurette Michel, a jeweler based in Pourrain, a town located in Yonne. His creation entitled “Infinite Love”, a work of gold reinvented from an old wedding ring, won over the jury with its strong symbolism, its refinement and its technicality.
This unique piece, adorned with a diamond and three stylized birds, illustrates both the technical mastery of the craftswoman and the emotion that inhabits her work. “ It’s the joy that comes first. It’s also the result of a lot of work, on this piece, but also over the years”confided Laurette Michel, visibly moved after the announcement of her victory.
A showcase of artisanal excellence
The Métiers d’Art competition plays a crucial role in highlighting regional talents. It celebrates artisans who combine traditional know-how and artistic innovation, two essential pillars for the preservation and evolution of artistic crafts.
The CMA BFC also congratulated all the departmental finalists for their commitment and talent. Through this initiative, it reaffirms the importance of supporting and promoting these sectors, true ambassadors of the regional territory.
The Prix des Métiers d’Art, more than just a competition, is a celebration of the passion and creativity that drive artistic artisans. It reminds us that craftsmanship is not only a profession, but also a heritage to be preserved and transmitted.
See you in 2025 for a new edition full of discoveries and emotions!
Nathalie CHABOTEAU
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