Conversations on Craft Vol. 1: a showcase of Carlota Barrera universe

Carlota Barrera opens her first exhibition, Conversations on Craft Vol.1, at Central del Diseño of Matadero Madrid. From May 8 to 13, this space will be transformed into a stage where the most intimate elements of Barrera’s universe will come to life, inviting a deep reflection on the value of craftsmanship in contemporary fashion.

Conversations on Craft Vol. 1 is, in the designer’s own words, “the beginning of a conversation about past, present and future, a dialogue between craft and fashion, a challenge to our ever-changing industry and cultural landscape.” The exhibition stands as a living testimony to the constant evolution of craftsmanship, driven by curiosity and collective drive. Here, at Design Central, pieces developed in the designer’s atelier coexist with those created in collaboration with artisans, imbued with the care and skill of human hands. Each object tells a story of individual and shared passion, capturing the essence of artisan work.

All of Carlota Barrera’s collections have something in common: deconstructed garments that can only exist with meticulous production. Her designs experiment with the concept of the classic, the traditional. “I am fascinated by the process of reinterpreting the classic with a very contemporary language,” says the designer. That is why the show goes beyond the mere exhibition of pieces and processes, but rather it is a window into the language and creative world of Carlota Barrera, shaped by years of collaboration and experimentation. Beyond the design and fashion factor, this exhibition seeks to generate crucial dialogues about the preservation of artisanal crafts in a world increasingly dominated by mass production, reminding us that behind every garment there is a story of passion, skill and dedication that deserves to be celebrated and preserved.

“A handmade object is the result of years of learning and accumulated mastery of the people who treat the material, cut, braid, place and join the pieces. All of our garments are handmade by people, and all of these people deserve great respect and recognition for their talent, expertise and dedication. Our garments would be nothing without them.”

Carlota barrera

Craftsmanship, for Barrera, is not simply a vestige of the past, but a living source of creativity and contemporary expression. Through this exhibition, the designer shares her deep respect for artisans and her dedication to preserving and promoting their skills in an era where speed and uniformity threaten to eclipse uniqueness and quality.

In addition to being a space to appreciate artisanal beauty, the exhibition also seeks to foster an intergenerational dialogue within the fashion industry. Through this encounter, Barrera hopes to inspire and educate future generations, promoting a collaborative and respectful approach to craftsmanship and craft. An opportunity to immerse oneself in Carlota Barrera’s creative universe and reflect on the perennial value of craftsmanship in an increasingly fast-paced and digitized world.