At the 62nd edition of the Damascus International Fair, the features of Syria’s rich heritage are revealed through handicrafts expressing a deep-rooted national identity.

Artisan Mohammad Ali Al-Hamwi presents at the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor pavilion a unique art form consisting of painting on natural leather and bag making, combining authenticity and creativity.

Al-Hamwi told SANA’s correspondent that although he studied agricultural engineering, his passion for handicrafts led him to master bag making and leather painting, transforming this passion into a comprehensive project aimed at reviving and promoting Syrian heritage within the framework of tourism industries.

He highlighted the importance of integrating handicrafts into schools and institutes, stressing that attention to fine arts should be complemented by applied arts directly related to people’s lives. He suggested increasing the number of applied arts institutes and teaching students skills like carpet making, opening wide professional horizons for them.

Among his most prominent works is a model of Queen Zenobia decorated with a Mamluk artistic frame, reflecting his passion for Syrian heritage.

Al-Hamwi concluded by emphasizing that Syrian handicrafts are not mere products but cultural and artistic messages carrying the spirit of creativity, deserving promotion and respect everywhere.