The Arts and Crafts Centre Carlos Silva e Sousa (Albufeira, Portugal)
The Arts and Crafts Centre Carlos Silva e Sousa opened on the 25th of April 2023, and it offers an exhibition area and various workshops for those who are interested in learning a new or traditional craft as well as exploring their artistic potential.
Opening times and admission
Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 1 pm, closed for lunch for one hour, then open again from 2 pm to 5:30 pm.
Entry is free.
How to get there:
From the main bus station (Terminal Rodoviario de Albufeira), the Centre is a 25-minute walk, a 12-minute bus journey (bus no 10) followed by a 6-minute walk, or a 5-minute taxi journey.
If you already happen to be by the beach, the Centre is a 5-minute walk from Praia do Tunel and a 7-minute walk from the Observation Deck.
Address: Rua da Igreja Nova 15, 8200-002 Albufeira, Portugal
Exibitions
The Exhibition Room displays local artists' creations. Last year, it was Maré' (Tide) a textile installation made by local artist Vanessa Barragao, for the inauguration of the Arts and Crafts Centre (on display until August 2024, see below)
The current display is Ana Leonor Rocha's creation - Mar Novo (New Sea), featuring drawings, a large painting and a sculpture.
Workshops
The workshops take place at the lower level (-1).
Advanced booking either at the Centre or online is needed to attend any of the classes/workshops, even for the ones which are free of charge, as some of them can only accommodate a small number of people.
Some of the workshops you can find at the Arts and Crafts Centre include Graphite Illustration, Esparto, Cyanotype, Fabric Painting, Natural Candles, Macrame and Wood Painting.
For exact info about the workshops, please check out their official website, where you can see more details about registration, the times, prices and languages available.
For any other information, call 289 599 680 or email: centro.artesoficios@cm-albufeira.pt
Gift Shop
If you're looking for souvenirs or unique gifts, I highly recommend having a look at the objects on display in the shop area by the entrance/reception. As far as I can see, they are all handmade, and they're all creations of local artists.
* A huge Thank You! to Ana Paula and Luis for explaining everything beautifully, offering all the information I needed and being generally super helpful every time I've been there ❤
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