The Acting Mayor of Arrecife, Echedey Eugenio, and the Councillor for Culture, Abigail González, invite residents and visitors to explore the institutional stand at the 36th Lanzarote Craft Fair, which opens on Wednesday afternoon. This year’s space is dedicated to the figure of Félix el Zapatero, an artisan who embodies the living memory of the city.
This morning, both officials visited the stand’s setup to review final preparations ahead of the inauguration. They emphasised the importance of preserving traditions and passing on the value of craftsmanship to new generations, highlighting Félix’s journey as an example of dedication and passion for a profession that has shaped the history of Arrecife.
Showcasing Traditional Craftsmanship
The stand recreates the world of traditional shoemaking. It features antique sewing machines, working tools, and pieces of footwear that span over a century of history, including men’s shoes from 1940, women’s shoes from 1935, espadrilles from 1915, insoles from 1905, camel shoes, and donkey gear, along with a sewing horse for working while seated. The entire space is designed as a tribute to the generations of cobblers who have kept this tradition alive.
A Tribute to Artisan Legacy
The stand also includes a video projection portraying Félix’s story, noting that he is part of the third generation of cobblers in his family. The narrative describes how he grew up amidst leather, threads, and shoe molds, dedicating his life to the craft inherited from his grandparents. His workshop is depicted as a place where tradition and passion converge, underscoring that each shoe is handmade with care and precision. It is highlighted that he learned the art by observing his father. The narration insists that Félix has managed to keep a tradition that was on the verge of disappearing alive; his work is more than just a trade, as it combines ancient techniques with modern touches. His cobbler’s workshop is presented as a symbol of Arrecife’s craftsmanship and as an example that artisanal work is a legacy connecting the past, present, and future.
Statements from Officials
The Acting Mayor, Echedey Eugenio, remarked that “Félix’s figure represents a bridge between the history and present not only of Arrecife but of the entire island, and each stitch of his work holds a legacy that is part of Lanzarote’s identity.”
Meanwhile, Councillor for Culture Abigail González stated that “this tribute symbolises the commitment of the Culture Department to our roots, and it is crucial that younger generations understand the value of craftsmanship.”
