The 3rd Saudi International Handicrafts Week (Banan), hosted by the Heritage Commission under the Saudi Ministry of Culture, brought together exhibitors from over 40 countries, more than 400 Saudi artisans, and 20 partner organizations.
China participated as the guest of honor, presenting over 1,000 craft pieces and live heritage performances. Zhao Pu, founder of WCF, was invited to attend, highlighting the growing importance of international exchange in craftsmanship.

WCF visited Cockpit Studios, an award-winning social enterprise and the UK’s only business incubator dedicated to craft businesses. With sites in Bloomsbury and Deptford, Cockpit supports more than 175 independent creative businesses across over 20 craft disciplines. The visit opened conversations on international exchange, creative entrepreneurship, and future collaboration.
exchange in craftsmanship.

Founded in 2011, Il·lacions is a leading Barcelona design gallery representing more than 70 designers and makers. During the visit, founder Xavier Franquesa introduced the gallery’s distinctive creator ecosystem and shared the stories behind its represented designers. The exchange highlighted new possibilities for strengthening the global visibility of craft and design.C

In July 2024, the WCF team, led by founder Zhao Pu, launched its global roadshow with a first stop in Georgia. Chosen for its rich historical significance, Georgia is widely recognized as one of the birthplaces of wine, where traditional clay vessels remain part of the winemaking process today. Pottery, as one of humanity’s earliest forms of making, deepens the region’s connection to artisanal heritage.