The Cuban province of Matanzas is making final preparations for the VIII Provincial Salon El Artesano, an event aimed at showcasing contemporary applied arts within a technically sophisticated setting.

Sponsored by the provincial branch of the Cuban Association of Artisan Artists (ACAA), the main event of the year for members promises to be an opportunity to highlight artistic work in the province.

According to Annia Cortegaza, events director for the ACAA in Matanzas, the Salon serves as a platform to value the talent, craftsmanship, and originality of the creators affiliated with the organization.

The official call for entries states that submitted works must be original and created during the current year, in order to evaluate their artistic originality and merit.

Each participant may submit up to three pieces, including the title, technique, dimensions, and value. Wall-hung works must include appropriate supports, while large-scale pieces or installations should be accompanied by images for curatorial review.

The event schedule specifies that submissions will be accepted from October 6 to 8 at the ACAA headquarters. The Salon will open with a cultural gala on October 20, and the exhibition will remain open to the public until November 14 of the same year.

Awards to be presented at El Artesano include the Grand Prize, First, Second, and Third Place honors, as well as Traditional and Utilitarian, and Artistic Craftsmanship prizes. Additional recognitions will be given for categories including ceramics, metal, glass, fibers, and paper, among others.