Semnan’s handicrafts as a path to job creation
Handicrafts are recognized as a low-cost industry in the production process, but they carry high added value. Semnan Province has taken significant steps toward developing creative handicrafts to promote the livelihoods of artisans in this field, aiming for job creation while preserving this enduring and historical art. The province is known for its rich heritage of handicrafts, including pottery, carpet weaving, and traditional textiles, which reflect the unique culture and craftsmanship of the region.
Handicrafts are among industries that, in addition to having historical and cultural backing, play an effective role in job creation, improving livelihoods, and generating income. The productivity of this industry requires securing a sales market, which in turn needs attention to the tastes and needs of consumers, IRNA wrote.
Currently, artisans in Semnan Province prioritize innovation and production tailored to community needs in the field of handicrafts, as well as the creation of high-quality artistic works. This approach enhances collaboration and synergy between graduates of artistic disciplines and traditional artisans, fostering a vibrant creative ecosystem.
The production of creative handicrafts is effective in securing and guaranteeing a sales market, and holding unveiling ceremonies for these works plays an important role in encouraging artists toward innovative production and drawing the attention of officials and the public to handmade items. This strategy is pursued alongside efforts to obtain the National Seal of Excellence, which will further elevate the status of local artisans and their crafts.
Deputy Head of Semnan Province’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicraft Organization, Samaneh Soltanipour, stated that four innovative and creative works by handicraft artists from this province were unveiled for the first time. She added that these works include a leather candy dish and sugar bowl, an engraved board titled “A Piece of Heaven,” a ceramic piece representing the Saqqa Khaneh (public drinking place) of the holy shrine of Imam Reza (PBUH), and a shomareh-duzi (a type of embroidery) tablecloth.
Soltani-Pour further announced that from now on, innovative and creative products from the handicrafts of Semnan Province will be unveiled monthly with the aim of encouraging and promoting the introduction of artists.
She invited all artists in the province to submit their creative and innovative works that have not yet been presented through the district offices, so they can be reviewed and evaluated for introduction at the unveiling event of innovative works. This initiative will not only showcase the talents of local artisans but also help preserve and promote the unique cultural heritage of Semnan Province.