Every second September, held amongst the gardens of the Fondazione Giorgio Cini on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice, is the Homo Faber Biennial- a homage to contemporary craftsmanship.
In an age where we are becoming increasingly digital, Homo Faber celebrates human talent and presents the work of hundreds of craft artists from across the globe. The event reminds us how the greatest feats of humanity have been through the talent and craftsmanship of human hands.
Initially envisioned by Johann Rupert, chairman of the Swiss luxury conglomerate Richemont, whose portfolio includes Cartier, Montblanc, Van Cleef & Arpels to name a few, the event was then handed to his youngest daughter, Hanneli Rupert, who has truly made it her own.
Curated by the Michelangelo Foundation for Creativity and Craftsmanship, this year’s edition had a definite curatorial structure; the theme “ An Island of Light” is curated by Artistic Director, British artist and scenographer, Es Devlin.
The concept of “Island of Light” is a play with reflection, refraction and shadow. Over 2,000 visitors attended the event this year, among them prestigious museums from across the globe, interior designers, artists, art collectors and buyers. Island of Light leads the visitor through several rooms and displays that encompass more than 700 hand-crafted objects crafted by over 500 artisans from 70 countries.
The concept of light is seen throughout the exhibition; light is manipulated through the use of water, movement and mirrors. In each of the 15 installations, you are immersed in the incredible world of craftsmanship behind each piece. In addition, live workshops held by the craft artists themselves take place across all 15 installations. Homo Faber invites the visitor to experience these incredible craftsmen through the opportunity to participate in hands on craft workshops with the artisans themselves. The intention of the event is to support the excellence of craftsmen and preserve what makes us human.
Luna F., Visual Arts Ambassador 2026-2027
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