When I first heard about Xtant, the global gathering of heritage textile artisans and enthusiasts, I thought it sounded special. An event I would definitely love to explore:
Mallorca.
The world of art in craft.
Spectacular handmade designs.
Interesting topics on sustainability.
Creative crowd.
What’s not to love? – I thought. And felt extremely honoured to be invited to take part in it.
But the true understanding of the mission came to me only at the historical manor – Can Vivot where the marvellous craft show and market took place.
The moment I walked through the entrance gate I felt like stepping into a different world. A world where time is slow, life less hurried, gracious and filled with meaning. Where craft and art are cherished, respected and preserved. Where people take time to learn new skills, exchange ideas on how to combine traditions with the modern world. Where the importance of bringing the heritage textiles back to life with pride and heart is a common aim. A common passion. A truly special vision put into reality by two wonderful ladies, the Xtant founders – Kavita Parmar and Marcella Echavarria.
The 4th edition of Xtant – Fibra 2023 took place in Palma de Mallorca between 9-13th of May bringing together 60 artisans from around the world in three different locations around Palma: Can Vivot, Can Balaguer, Casa Museo Can Marques, each full of expositions, workshops, talks, experiences.
I loved the idea to participate in all the happenings hence, together with my good friend and colleague Holly Becker from Decor8, we spent three days filled with inspiration and activities. Starting at the opening party with relaxed atmosphere, local treats, wine, performances and sounds of the guitar, followed by a day at the maker’s market getting to know designers, their collections and stories. A Market featured variety of textile products including rugs from Studio Daniel Costa, interior and clothing items by Sarah Jerath, fashion from Laurence Airline fibre art by Rosana Escobar and Adrian Pepe, sculptural chairs from Aurelie Hoegy, fabrics by Paiwand Studio just to name a few. Also beautiful pillows and accessories coming from my home country – Poland by the creative duo – Plonka Podlesna & Bosa Asia.
On the second day we explored the Art installations including Tatiana Sarasa and Regina Dejimenez located at the Palma’s historical courtyards.
On our last day we had a chance to try two Xtant tailor-made, authentic Mallorca experiences. In the morning we explored the traditional embroidery techniques passed down from one generation to another at the worksop with Raasleela followed by taste the culture with Fornet della Soca in the afternoon.
My greatest takeaway from Xtant Fibra 2023 is witnessing creative energy and bonding between like-minded people. A great beginning to the greatest things!
And now I would like to take you on a photo-tour to show you the event through my eyes and lens.
I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Thank you to everyone participating and making this event so special.
You can also view all our adventures in the highlight ‘Mallorca’ on my instagram.
x
Agata
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This post has been written in collaboration with Xtant. All expressed opinions are my own.
Photos: Agata Dimmich. All rights reserved.
