The latest edition of the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize unveils an extraordinary array of artworks that delve into the realm of contemplative, time-honored techniques, showcasing the deft manipulation of materials. Immerse yourself in a tapestry of unexpected forms and vibrant hues, unleashing an exuberant sense of playfulness and delightful surprises. Each captivating piece among the shortlisted works will grace the hallowed halls of The Noguchi Museum’s Isamu Noguchi Studio in New York from May 17th to June 18th, 2023. For those unable to attend in person, the exhibition will be accessible online, meticulously documented within an exquisite exhibition catalog, preserving the essence of each finalist’s creative expression.
Eriko Inazaki, Metanoia, 2019
Eriko Inazaki’s mesmerizing ceramic sculpture unveils a symphony of intricate details, born from the convergence of countless minuscule forms, crystallizing across its surface. The jury hailed Inazaki’s unrivaled prowess in adorning ceramics. With virtuosity that commands the exhibition space, her work exudes an enchanting presence.
Dominique Zinkpè, The Watchers, 2022
The esteemed Jury also bestowed two special mentions, further elevating the artistic landscape:
Dominique Zinkpè (b.1969, Benin) for his captivating creation, The Watchers, 2022. This towering wall sculpture intricately fashioned from individual wooden pieces evokes the rich tapestry of traditional Yoruba beliefs surrounding multiple births. The jury embraced Zinkpè’s sculptural reimagining of ancient customs, expanding the horizons of contemporary craftsmanship.
Moe Watanabe, Transfer Surface, 2022
Moe Watanabe (b.1996, Japan) secured recognition for her extraordinary work, Transfer Surface, 2022. Paying homage to the cyclical nature of seasons, her walnut bark box reminisces on the revered Japanese tradition of Ikebana vase making. The jury applauded Watanabe’s celebration of bark’s raw materiality, interwoven with rivets, reminiscent of architectural construction and the age-old art of mending.
The selection process for the 30 finalists began in January 2023, with a distinguished panel of experts meticulously reviewing over 2,700 submissions from skilled artisans hailing from 117 countries and regions. Representing 16 countries and regions worldwide, these finalists captivate with their mastery across a diverse range of mediums, including ceramics, woodwork, textiles, leather, glass, metal, jewelry, and lacquer.
Launched by the LOEWE FOUNDATION in 2016, this annual prize reveres excellence, artistic merit, and innovation in contemporary craftsmanship. Conceptualized by the visionary creative director Jonathan Anderson, the award honors the indelible significance of craft in today’s cultural tapestry, celebrating artists whose talent, vision, and unwavering commitment to innovation forge new frontiers. A tribute to LOEWE’s origins as a collective craft workshop in 1846, this accolade epitomizes the very essence of the brand, forever weaving together tradition and modernity.
Jonathan Anderson, LOEWE’s creative director, passionately asserts, “Craft is the essence of LOEWE.
