" The Space for Arts and Crafts is an initiative from the Oficina General del Casco Histórico (Historical Area General Office), in Buenos Aires City, consisting in an exhibition that is annually performed to learn about old crafts that have once been characteristic in the City. Their visitors can observe not only finished products but also how they are built, maintaining the old techniques in vogue, essential for recovering the cultural patrimony in our City"
We were invited to the ceremony during which we were bestowed a Diploma for our participation in the last event. The place chosen? The Casa de la Cultura (Culture House) facilities, a building that belonged to the centenary La Prensa Newspaper.
A gorgeous building, a city witness, of this country history. Merely twenty five meters away from Plaza de Mayo. So much to tell, to see... Fortunately, for those who are a bit far from Buenos Aires, the technology now lets us perform a virtual sightseeing that takes us near this site.
We were greeted by the complete Casco Histórico group, who have accustomed us to their habitual cordial and very kind treatment. And nothing less than the Golden Saloon, which according to Roberto, is a very suitable space for practicing revo indoor!
We met people whom we actually wouldn't recall their names, but their craft, yes: "there is the filleter...", "over here, the goldsmiths!", "How are you?", to the bookbinders. And, of course, very proud, "we, the kitefliers".
I expected a somewhat formal act. It was a refreshing surprise when they invited us to sit in a round and started sharing opinions about the last exhibition, and ideas on how to improve future ones. Fortunately, they confirmed us that this year it will be performed again, most certainly at San Francisco Church Cloisters, and they would implement some actions for improving the event broadcasting. It's worth highlighting how receptive the cultural managers looked towards the attendants' worries and initiatives.
Then a little toast, a curious trip along the building, and in the end, we departed happy and grateful for having this type of opportunities, sharing good moments. An obliged stop at one of the nearby bars, to enjoy an autumnal and very "Buenos Aires-type" coffee.
Gustavo
