Damascus, July 10 (SANA) Artisans from across Syria gathered at Damascus’ historic Azem Palace on Thursday for “Craft in the Spotlight,” an exhibition showcasing traditional crafts at risk of disappearing and highlighting efforts to preserve the country’s cultural heritage.
The event, organized by the Syrian Heritage Riwaq Forum under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture and the Damascus Governorate, featured live demonstrations of traditional crafts including qamariyya (Damascene stained glass), hand weaving, glassblowing and copper engraving.
Speaking at the opening, Culture Minister Mohammad Yassin al-Saleh said traditional crafts represent an integral part of Syria’s cultural identity and pledged continued support for artisans to help safeguard and develop these professions.
Damascus Governor Maher Marwan Idlibi said authorities would continue supporting initiatives to train younger generations and preserve Syria’s traditional craftsmanship.
Hala Qassqas, a researcher and supervisor of the event, said protecting Damascus’ intangible cultural heritage depends on supporting artisans, who play a central role in preserving traditional knowledge and passing it on to future generations.
Among the exhibitors was master weaver Maher Deirki, who showcased traditional Damascene brocade, damask fabrics and sayat textiles. He said expanding access to international markets and establishing specialized training centers would help ensure the survival of the centuries-old craft.
Mohammad al-Sirwan, a maker of traditional wool belts, said only a limited number of artisans continue to practice the craft in Syria and called for dedicated training institutes to encourage younger people to learn it.
Veteran copper engraver Ayman Zarda, who has worked in the trade since 1970, demonstrated the hand-carving techniques used to produce Damascus’ distinctive copperwork, while glassblower Mahmoud al-Hallaq showcased traditional methods his family has practiced for generations. Both stressed the need for training programs to prevent the crafts from disappearing.
Fayez Talmasani, a specialist in qamariyya, or traditional stained glass, said the centuries-old craft remains a defining feature of Damascene architecture and called for greater institutional and media support to help preserve it.
The event concluded with a ceremony honoring participating artisans for their contributions to preserving Syria’s traditional crafts and passing their skills on to future generations.
T.S /ABD
