City of Geneva

When we talk about art or culture, we often think of the artist or the work. But whether in the field of performing arts, plastic arts or heritage, many less visible skills are essential to achieve an artistic project. Skills often little known or forgotten, yet aiming for excellence, bearers of a certain love of the object.

In the museums, the libraries of the City, but also in the theaters and all other cultural institutions, these trades are present and essential to the realization of the missions and the projects of these places.

In the heart of a city, they also represent a real economic contribution, a significant added value.

The discovery and enhancement of this know-how is at the center of the European Days of Crafts (JEMA) created in France in 2007. Since 2012, I have set up JEMA in Geneva which immediately attracted the support of professions concerned and a real enthusiasm from the public. The cantons of Vaud, Geneva, Jura and Neuchâtel then joined us, giving this event a real French-speaking dimension.

The extension of the event then led us to create the Swiss Association of Crafts. Coordination is thus facilitated and artistic professions will gain in visibility. I am therefore very happy to be its first president!

Sami Kanaan
Administrative advisor in charge of culture and sport
President of the Swiss Association of Crafts

Canton of Geneva

For five years, craftsmen have been opening their workshops to show us their exceptional know-how. The success of JEMA has never wavered, so much are our love of beautiful things and our curiosity for these magicians of matter. Their mastery of gesture and techniques, their ability to create, restore, repair the elements of our heritage make them essential players in our society.

The objective of these JEMAs is also to create emulators. The fascination of the youngest in front of these extraordinary activities can turn into a vocation for the teenager who must make big decisions concerning his professional future. The DIP is thus placed at the center of this system and a particular effort is made so that the classes of the Orientation Cycle take part in these enriching days. In addition, as usual, the public will be able to visit several vocational training centers and for the first time the CFPC which houses the wood trades.

The Bâtiment des Forces Motrices (BFM) will be the heart of this 2017 edition. The OFPC will be present there to respond to those who wish to pursue a craft.

I already thank all the people who allow us to experience these exciting days and wish you, Madam, Sir, a lot of pleasure in visiting the backstage of our artistic production.

Anne Emery-Torracinta
State Councilor in charge of the Department of Public Instruction, Culture and Sport (DIP)