During these days, we listened to a group of professionals who shared their stories, fears, and dreams. And as every year, the captain of this journey, Begoña Pascual, taught us that beauty and knowledge need time, care, and dedication. It was moving to see how, under her leadership, Ars Textum continues to champion the recovery and preservation of the virtuous savoir faire of Spanish master artisans, giving them the visibility and respect they deserve.

This year, we met Raúl del Chano. He lives in a small village in Teruel, surrounded by his horses and the fertile silence that inspires him. He began his training in Catalan basketry, but his curiosity led him to learn from international basket makers, creating his own textures and volumes. This is how his baskets and sculptures were born: organic, delicate pieces full of magic and history. Listening to him made us realise that craftsmanship is humility and greatness at the same time; it is looking at the material with respect and listening to what it asks to become. His hands tell stories his voice can hardly describe, and his gaze reflects the light of someone deeply connected to the earth and something greater.

We also listened again to Pedro Rosa, from TodoBarro, a project that is revolutionising the aesthetic language of terracotta. Original designs, new textures, tones, and a concept that has earned them the label of neo-artisans. But what inspired us most was their philosophy: “We believe that for traditions to remain alive, they must adapt to the times we live in.” That’s why they have incorporated mould production using 3D printing with biodegradable plastic (PLA). It was thrilling to hear how their passion has led them to collaborate with major brands like Zara, and how every step they take is full of research, respect, and deep love for their craft. Because innovation does not destroy tradition: it strengthens and projects it into the future.

And how beautiful it was to hear in the room: “We live this red thread.” That Japanese concept that says people destined to meet are connected by an invisible thread that never breaks, even if time or distance stretches it. Ars Textum is that: a red thread that connects people, crafts, knowledge, places, and dreams. It is the certainty that when we share knowledge and beauty, something inside us transforms. Because in the end, we are all connected.

Thank you, Ars Textum, for reminding us that the future is woven with threads of tradition and wings of innovation. Thank you for these days of inspiration, emotion, and encounters that remind us who we are and where we want to go. Because, deep down, craftsmanship is not only creating with our hands: it is creating with our hearts.

For Dueñas, it is a true inspiration. Because if there is something we learned these days, it is that the heart of projects is woven from the same material as craftsmanship: patience, beauty, respect, and truth.