List

Call for Entry: The 9th International Fajr Festival of Handicrafts (Sarv-e Simin)

20th-24th February 2025

Tehran, Iran

Introduction

The 9th International Fajr Festival of Handicrafts (Sarv-e Simin), held under the theme “Cultural Diversity and Convergence,” is a prestigious global event showcasing the finest creations in handicrafts and traditional arts. This festival provides a unique platform for a competitive display of the most outstanding and valuable works crafted by master artisans and renowned designers.

Designed with an international scope, the festival highlights exceptional creativity and innovation in design, technique, and the use of high-quality materials. By presenting these remarkable pieces as exemplary works, the festival serves as both a fair and inspiring competition and a model for fostering artistic excellence on a global scale.

Main Section of the Festival:

Fine Handicrafts: This section is dedicated to showcasing exceptional works of fine (classic) handicrafts, evaluated by a panel of expert judges based on criteria such as quality, craftsmanship, aesthetic appeal, and cultural significance. International participants are invited to submit their works that meet the highest standards of excellence and originality.

To participate in this section, artisans must register on the festival’s official website and upload high-quality images along with detailed information about their submissions. This ensures fair evaluation and provides an opportunity for their work to be recognized on an international platform.

Judging Process

Fine Handicrafts: This section is dedicated to showcasing exceptional works of fine (classic) handicrafts, evaluated by a panel of expert judges based on criteria such as quality, craftsmanship, aesthetic appeal, and cultural significance. International participants are invited to submit their works that meet the highest standards of excellence and originality.

To participate in this section, artisans must register on the festival’s official website and upload high-quality images along with detailed information about their submissions. This ensures fair evaluation and provides an opportunity for their work to be recognized on an international platform.

Judging Criteria

To determine the best submissions, the panel evaluates works based on the following criteria:

  1. Technical and Artisanal Quality
  2. Innovation, Creativity, and Design
  3. High-Quality and Sustainable Materials
  4. Message and Artistic Narrative
  5. Impact on Audience
  6. Authenticity and Preservation of Traditions
  7. Multicultural and International Collaboration

International Awards:

The 9th Sarv-e Simin International Festival offers two exclusive awards for international participants:

  1. International Award:
    • Prize: €700 in cash (1 artisan)
    • Recognition: Sarv-e Simin Trophy
  2. Honorable Mention for International Participants:
    • Prize: €400 in cash (1 artisan)
    • Recognition: Certificate of Merit

Submission Guidelines for Artwork Photographs

Submitted photographs of artworks for the 9th Sarv-e Simin International Festival of Handicrafts must adhere to the following instructions, designed to ensure clear, high-quality images suitable for evaluation by the jury:

Photo Quality and Resolution

  • Submitted photographs must be of high resolution with a minimum of 300 DPI, ensuring all details of the artwork are clearly visible.
  • Files must be in JPEG format with a file size between 1 MB and 2 MB.
  • The dimensions of the photographs should range between 1000 to 2000 pixels in width or height.

Angles and Composition

  • Participants must provide at least one main image of the artwork, showcasing its entirety.
  • Additional close-up photographs (maximum 4 images) of specific details, highlighting intricate techniques or unique features, are encouraged to help judges better understand the craftsmanship.

Background and Lighting

  • Photographs must be taken against a simple, pattern-free background (preferably white or gray) to keep the focus on the artwork.
  • Lighting should be natural or professional, avoiding harsh shadows or direct light that could obscure details. The aim is to capture images that closely resemble the actual appearance of the artwork.

File Naming and Submission

  • All photographs must be uploaded through the festival’s official registration form on the website.
  • Each file should be named with the artisan’s name for easy identification.

Additional Notes

Detailed photography guidelines, including text and video instructions, will be available on the festival’s website to assist participants in preparing their submissions.

Description Form Submission Guidelines

When submitting an artwork to the 9th Sarv-e Simin International Festival of Handicrafts and Traditional Arts, participants are required to complete a detailed description form.

Details to Include:

Major: e.g., pottery, textile weaving

Name of the Artwork: Include a unique and descriptive title for your submission

Materials: List the materials used in creating the artwork

Method and Features: Describe the techniques and processes used to craft the piece, along with any notable technical features.

Dimensions & weight: Length, Width, Height

Inspiration and Concept: The artistic message or cultural narrative embedded in the work.

Cultural or Historical Background: If the artwork draws upon cultural traditions, historical influences, or regional techniques, provide details. Highlight connections to traditional crafts or unique heritage.

Innovative aspect: Explain the artistic goals and any innovative features of the work.

Artwork Submission Guidelines

International participants submitting their works to the 9th International Fajr Festival of Handicrafts must adhere to the following conditions:

  1. Design and Quality Standards:
    • Submissions must exhibit exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and outstanding artistic quality.
  2. Submission through Official Channels:
    • Works should be submitted via cultural attachés of embassies or in collaboration with the World Crafts Council (WCC) to ensure authenticity and proper representation.
  3. Size and Weight Requirements:
    • Artworks must be of a size and weight that allows for easy transportation by one individual.
  4. Packaging:
    • If an artwork requires special protective packaging, participants must provide the necessary materials to ensure its safety during transportation.

Guidelines for Physical Submission of Artworks

After being shortlisted in the first round of evaluation, participants are required to send their original artworks to the festival. Proper and secure packaging and shipment are critical to ensure the piece arrives undamaged. Participants should adhere to the following guidelines for physical submission:

  • Choosing Appropriate Packaging Materials
    • Use protective materials such as foam, bubble wrap, sponge, or soft fabric to safeguard the artwork from impacts or pressure during transit. Surround the piece with these materials to prevent movement and vibration.
    • For delicate or fragile works, multiple layers of protective materials are essential. Inner packaging may include sturdy boxes or protective plastic covers for added security.
  • Using Sturdy and Suitable Boxes
    • Double-layered cardboard boxes or wooden crates are recommended for large or heavy items. The box should be appropriately sized—not too small to exert pressure on the piece, nor too large to allow movement inside.
    • If the artwork consists of multiple parts, each piece should be individually wrapped and packed within the box with sufficient spacing to prevent contact and damage.
  • Proper Labeling
    • Attach "Fragile" labels prominently on multiple sides of the package to alert handlers to exercise care.
    • Clearly and accurately write the destination address and contact information on the package.
  • Insured Shipping
    • Due to the high value of the artworks, shipping the package with insurance is strongly recommended. The declared value for insurance purposes should match the artist’s self-assessment provided during registration.
    • Obtain a tracking number for the shipment to monitor its status and ensure timely and safe delivery to the festival.
  • Special Handling Instructions for Sensitive Works
    • If the artwork includes materials sensitive to light, temperature, or humidity (e.g., leather, fabric, or ceramics), provide specific instructions for handling during transit. Consider using moisture-resistant packaging or special protective covers as needed.
    • For large or multi-component pieces requiring assembly at the destination, include detailed assembly instructions with the shipment.
  • Timing and Early Submission
    • It is advisable to ship the artwork well before the deadline to account for potential delays during transit, ensuring it arrives on time for the festival.

This comprehensive guide ensures artworks are transported safely and arrive in perfect condition, ready for evaluation and display.

Accommodation and Transportation:

Artisans whose works are selected for display in the exhibition can coordinate with the embassy of their respective countries for assistance in sending the original works to the festival. Participants are encouraged to ensure timely delivery of their works no longer than 4th February 2025.   

All expenses for the winners of the international section, including flight tickets, transfers, accommodation, and hospitality during their stay in Iran (23–25 February 2025), will be covered by the festival’s organizing committee.  

Delivery of International Works:

Address: Mellat Palace, Sa'dabad Cultural and Historical Complex, Taheri St, District 1, Tajrish Sq., Tehran, Iran

Contact Person: Ms. Azadeh Nikouei (WhatsApp & Mobile: +989101452602)

Date: 4-7 February 2025

Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Festival Timeline

  • Registration Deadline: 24 January, 2025  
  • Initial Judging: 29 January – 1 February, 2025  
  • Announcement of Initial Judging Results: 2 – 3 February, 2025  
  • Submission of Physical Artworks: 4 – 7 February, 2025  
  • Final Selection of Artworks for the Exhibition: 8 – 9 February, 2025  
  • The Exhibition Setup and Artwork Installation: 11 – 12 February, 2025  
  • Opening Ceremony and the Exhibition Launch: 20 February, 2025  
  • Final day of the Exhibition: 23 February, 2025  
  • Closing Ceremony: 24 February, 2025  

The venue for the opening ceremony, exhibition, and closing event will be announced later.

The venue for the opening ceremony, exhibition, and closing event will be announced later.