The six-day Policromia Lusófona (Lusophone Polychromy*) handicraft exhibition was inaugurated on Monday by the Forum for Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries (PSCs), aka Forum Macao, at the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) Gallery, opposite the city’s main square, Largo do Senado, showcasing traditional crafts from Portuguese-speaking countries and regions as part of the 18th China and Portuguese-speaking Countries Cultural Week.
Running through Sunday, the exhibition features handicrafts donated over the past two decades to Forum Macao, according to an information board at the entrance of the exhibition. The collection consists of works from Angola, Brazil, Cabo Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Timor-Leste, highlighting the cultural diversity shared through the Portuguese language.
Organised into four themed sections – textiles, musical instruments, sculptures and everyday objects – the exhibition presents handcrafted works that reflect each country’s history, traditions, and local environment.
Visitors are first introduced to textiles crafted from natural fibres before exploring traditional musical instruments associated with celebrations and rituals. The exhibition also features sculptures reflecting spiritual beliefs and daily life, alongside practical household objects that incorporate local aesthetics and craftsmanship. Together, the pieces illustrate techniques and knowledge passed down through generations while highlighting the diversity of the Lusophone world.
According to the message, while the Portuguese language connects communities across Europe, South America, Africa and Asia, handicrafts preserve the different cultural memories and identities of each society. The message also noted that, despite increasing digitalisation, traditional craftsmanship continues to demonstrate the relationship between people, culture, and the natural environment.
Beyond showcasing artistic craftsmanship, the exhibition highlights the cultural links shared among Portuguese-speaking countries while celebrating the traditions of each community. The organisers urge visitors to experience the textures, materials and stories behind each handcrafted piece, describing the exhibition as an opportunity to appreciate the creativity, vitality and cultural exchange that flourish across the Portuguese-speaking world.
With free admission, the exhibition is open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the ground-floor gallery until Sunday night, inviting residents and visitors to explore the artistic traditions and shared cultural heritage of the PSCs through handcrafted works.
* Polychromy refers to the art, practice, or effect of decorating surfaces – such as sculptures, architectural elements, and pottery – with a variety of vibrant colours. - Gemini
Photos: Khalel Vallo
