Rajanigandha, Panchannagram Mahila Samity, 1984 (photo Sasha Association for Craft Producers)
PROGRAMS & PROJECTS
APCA is carefully considering the best programs that will return benefits and opportunities for our members. Among these are the Asia Pacific Alliance Craft Masters Award and the development of an online database of members skills and capabilities. Our advocacy work is focused on opportunity developments coupled with economic and environmental awareness.
APCA Flagship Programs
Asia Pacific Craft Masters Awards
In 2027, the ‘Asia Pacific Craft Masters Awards’ will be held. These awards are intended to recognise and honour those living artisans and artists who have committed their working lives to becoming a master of their chosen craft and who have demonstrated particular qualities and fulfill the agreed criteria.
There are two levels of awards for CRAFT MASTER (An artisan/artist who has at least 20 years’ professional experience) and HONOURABLE CRAFT MASTER (at least 40 years’ professional experience).
Each region (West Asia, South Asia, South East Asia, East Asia, South Pacific and Central Asia) will host their own regional awards event, with all nominations and regional assessments set to take place in 2026 and up to March 2027 at the latest.
All Regional winners will then be eligible for the International Craft Masters Award, due to be announced October 2027.
NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN NOW! Information packs and detailed guides are now ready.
Global Craft Destinations Awards
The Global Craft Destination Award is a program of recognition and acknowledgement of superb craft offerings and unique visitor experiences that support residents, improve capacity and build reputation.
The Awards system acknowledges exemplary Craft Destinations that demonstrate a rich craft heritage and traditional making, empower communities, place importance on fair wages and social inclusion, and also share their stories through tourism and hospitality.
APCA looks to work with governments and cities across the Asia Pacific to turn cultural assets into visitor-ready craft experiences — grounded in community leadership, ethical practice, and long-term economic viability.
Find more information and resources on this new initiative on the Global Craft Destinations page
APCA Projects & Activities
From Tradition to New Possibilities: Three Weeks of Craft Design Training in Sichuan
September 2026
For three weeks, APCA Secretary General, Dr Joseph Lo, worked with artisans in Maisu Township (Dzongsar), Dege County, Sichuan, China, in a culture-based craft design training programme organised by Ms Dawa Dolma and sponsored by Khyenle.
The programme explored how traditional craft skills, materials and cultural knowledge can be developed into products that respond to contemporary life while retaining their cultural character.
