Whether they work on iron, wood or steel, the craftspeople here still use traditional methods but have brought a touch of modernity to their creations to bring them in line with the tastes of today. This is what is most interesting about the approach of the “new” craftspeople who know how to go beyond the confines of tradition and make their art live.
For example, the cabinet maker and the blacksmith may work together on a designer staircase for a modern villa, while the espadrille manufacturer will create models with wedge heels and the weaver will dream up new Basque fabrics adapted to contemporary interiors. Certain craftspeople such as the ceramics manufacturer Cazaux and the potters Goicoetchea ship their works of art (and they are true works of art) all over the world.
Special mention must also go to all the creators who have used strong symbols of local culture – surfing, rugby, corrida – to launch fashion clothing: 64, Serge Blanco, Pare Gabia, QuikSilver, Roxy, Billabong and Ruedo are some of the most emblematic brands.
The chair-making village of Came
The traditional shepherd’s umbrella
The “sonnaille” instruments
The beret
The espadrilles
The chisteras
The “makila”, walking sticks, Basque fabric.