Antigua Guatemala Hosted Global Jade Exhibition Welcoming Artists and Visitors This October
Antigua Guatemala will host an international gathering of jade artists from eight countries, showcasing handcrafted pieces, talks, and exhibitions that celebrate Mesoamerica’s millennia-old jade heritage.
Antigua Guatemala became a vibrant meeting point for jade artists and enthusiasts from around the world. From October 24 to 26, creators from Costa Rica, Argentina, El Salvador, Mexico, the United States, the Netherlands, Japan, and Guatemala showcased their original works and shared insights into the delicate art of jade carving.
A Celebration of Jade Craftsmanship and Culture
The event invited visitors to explore an extensive exhibition of jade pieces made with Guatemalan jadeite, attend engaging talks, and meet special guests throughout the weekend. It was a unique opportunity to learn about the creative process behind each work directly from the artists themselves.
This initiative was led by archaeologist Mary Lou Ridinger, who has spent years researching and promoting jade in Guatemala. Since 2022, she had spearheaded this annual congress, highlighting the artistry and originality that define jade carving in the region.
A Gem with Ancient Roots
Jade holds more than three thousand years of history in Mesoamerica, a region encompassing modern-day Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Ancient civilizations cherished jadeite stones, transforming them into ornaments, tools, and ceremonial objects. This heritage continues to inspire today’s artisans, who keep the legacy of jade alive through innovation and craftsmanship.
