On Tuesday evening, a significant event in the craft world took place at the Palais de Tokyo gallery in Paris. Andrés Anza, a previously unknown Mexican ceramicist, was awarded the prestigious Loewe Foundation Craft Prize for his work “I Only Know What I Have Seen,” a 5ft tall clay sculpture made of five interlocking pieces adorned with hundreds of tiny spikes. This was the seventh annual ceremony of the award instigated by Jonathan Anderson, creative director of Loewe, in 2016.

The event was attended by notable figures in the fashion industry, including Pharrell Williams, Rick Owens, Michèle Lamy, and Delphine Arnault. Anza’s winning artwork was praised by the judging panel, which included ceramicist Magdalene Odundo, industrial designer Patricia Urquiola, and Deyan Sudjic, former director of the Design Museum in London.

Three artists received special mentions: Japanese jeweler Miki Asai, US-based Heechan Kim, and French artist Emmanuel Boos. The event highlighted the rising appreciation of traditional crafts, with many fashion houses and museums increasing their focus on artisan work.

This year’s finalists, 30 in total, were chosen from over 3,900 entries, showcasing a diverse range of techniques and materials. The works are on display at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris until 9 June.