La Gacilly : arts and crafts, a real economic asset

Everything began 26 years ago. The mayor Yves Rocher decided to create a village of craftsmen from nothing. In 1971, there were only two craftsmen, one a weaver and the other a jewel maker. Today, twenty five workshops are open nearly all year long. From this slightly mad idea of the 1970s was born a real art and crafts activity, both economic and attracting tourists.

The palette of trades is varied. La Gacilly, is glass work, leather work, enamel work, copper work, cristal work, pottery, bronze and earthenware. The latter will be moreover the star of the "1st festival of the arts trades" which will take place from the 1st to the 4th of May 1997. The La Gacilly craftsmen anticipate a big event for the professionals, but also for the public and schools. Potters, ceramists, mosaic makers, sculptors, decorators, pottery painters, the best craftsmen in France will be there.

This biennial art and crafts event strengthens a coherent whole. It aims to be : "The link between tradition, popular art, creation and techniques", specifies Jean-Claude Mahé, the director of the Art Trades Association. A link brought to evidence over several years at La Gacilly. Here, the craftsmen unite ancient and modern techniques. It is easy to persuade yourself, you only need to open the doors of the stalls of La Gacilly. Glass spinners and blowers, potters and woodturners, all work in public to make La Gacilly an original tourist village.