Organizer: European Crafts Alliance
Event dates: Thursday, 30 April 2026
Event venue: Florence, Italy & Online
Read more and Register Here
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About the Conference
The European Crafts Alliance (ECA) will hold its Annual Conference 2026 on Thursday, 30 April. The event is co-organised by Artex and presented in collaboration with Firenze Fiera, during the 90th anniversary of the MIDA International Handicraft Exhibition in Florence, Italy.
Across Europe, the rhythm of making, shaping clay, weaving willow, working with wood, is beginning to appear in unexpected places. Craft practices are increasingly finding their way into rehabilitation programmes, community health initiatives and social prescribing networks. What was once discussed mainly in terms of cultural heritage or economic activity is now being explored for its contribution to wellbeing and community life.
Previously, the European Crafts Alliance has explored the craft sector from several perspectives, from the structure of its ecosystem to its economic contribution. This year’s conference adds another dimension to that conversation by looking at how craft practices intersect with wellbeing, social participation and community life. The conference will examine how making actually works in clinical rehabilitation, mental health, and social inclusion. For the craft sector, these aren't just social goals, they represent new professional pathways and a way to connect the workshop with the public health sector.
A major part of the event is the first public presentation of a new Europe-wide study on Crafting Health and Wellbeing. This research was commissioned by the ECA and conducted by the University of Eastern Finland. It provides the data the sector needs to advocate for better policy and to secure long-term funding and structural support.
The programme also includes real-world cases, such as ceramic programmes in Italy and the role of craft in professional recovery in Portugal, a dialogue on how to create a shared language between craft practitioners and health professionals, as well as a discussion on how to turn grassroots evidence into systemic support within the European care ecosystem, ensuring the social value of craft is officially recognised.
The conference takes place at Teatrino Lorenese, Firenze Fiera, as part of the celebrations marking the 90th anniversary of MIDA. The event will run from 09.30 (in-situ) & 10.00 CET online to 13.30 CET.
Participation is free and open to the public. Conference attendees will receive complimentary access to the fair during the duration of the conference.
Read more and Register Here
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The ECA Annual Conference 2026 is co-funded by the European Union.
Main image: Jasmin Schreiber on Unsplash
