Sustainability means looking to the future, but also looking back to a past that reminds us of the value of craftsmanship, traditional materials and the pace of handmade production. That’s where small workshops come in.
Artenseda in the Maresme region turns the art of painting silk into an authentic, personal experience with deep ties to the local area, where creativity and responsibility go hand in hand.
Pieces with soul
Founded in 1998, Artenseda grew out of artist Anna Albert’s passion for the ancient technique of hand-painting on natural silk. In her workshop, designed as a space open to locals and visitors, her creations take shape through a leisurely process in which slow, meticulous work is directly linked to the promotion of the circular economy. This approach eschews the dynamics of mass consumption and celebrates the value of craftwork as intangible heritage that must be preserved and shared.
Pieces include handkerchiefs, scarves, shawls, fans and other accessories crafted entirely by hand, making them unique, one-of-a-kind and truly personal items.
Authenticity in every detail
Artenseda sees sustainability as a way of working that respects people, the environment and local culture.
Its creative process consumes neither water nor electricity and, following a zero-waste policy, all leftover silk is transformed into other products, such as bags or necklaces. A good example is its collaboration with the Capellades Paper Mill Museum to create traditional handmade paper incorporating leftover scraps of painted silk. The result? One-of-a-kind packaging imbued with the same soul, history and care as the product it contains.
Passing on the craft is also a key part of the project. Artenseda trains art students to preserve knowledge of traditional techniques. It also participates in local events and workshops to introduce visitors to this heritage. It also organises seminars, community workshops, demonstrations and exhibitions where children and adults alike can experiment with art.
Artenseda’s commitment has been recognised through its inclusion in the Sustainable Destination Barcelona programme. This distinction recognises organisations that implement good practices aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and work to have a positive impact on their local community.
A workshop open to the world
Artenseda’s workshop is open to all, allowing anyone to learn about creative processes, gain an insider’s view of the craft and establish a direct connection with the creator, providing an authentic experience that connects us with artistic expression.
That’s why, after nearly thirty years, it has become a great example of how the preservation of traditional crafts and contemporary creation can become driving forces for responsible development and an invitation to discover our heritage from a closer, more conscious and human perspective.
Discover a love of silk at annaalbert.com/en/.
