The Directorate-General for the Arts (DG Artes) 's participation in the Portugal Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka was a highlight in celebrating Portuguese culture. Within the National Programme Saber Fazer, DG Artes and Património Cultural, IP, presented the exhibition "Water Flowing into the Sea," which valued both tangible and intangible heritage and showcased sustainable craftsmanship.
Held from 21 to 31 August, the exhibition underlined Portugal's deep connection to the sea. With unique pieces in ceramics, basketry, wood and plant fibres, it revealed how ancestral techniques, and natural materials remain relevant and contemporary, reflecting the cultural richness of coastal regions and the Azores.
Held from 21 to 31 August, the exhibition underlined Portugal's deep connection to the sea. With unique pieces in ceramics, basketry, wood and plant fibres, it revealed how ancestral techniques, and natural materials remain relevant and contemporary, reflecting the cultural richness of coastal regions and the Azores.
Visitors also participated in workshops on plant fibres, led by masters such as Manuel Ferreira (reed furniture) and Domingos Vaz (cane basketry). These hands-on experiences offered the chance to discover and practice traditional techniques at risk of disappearing, reinforcing the value of Portuguese knowledge and cultural heritage.
The programme also featured concerts blending tradition and modernity in Portuguese music. Projects such as O Gajo, Bandua, Expresso Transatlântico and A Cantadeira offered a memorable sound journey, where the Portuguese guitar, fado, the Beira Baixa songbook and the Adufeh intersected with electronic music and contemporary rhythms. These performances captivated audiences and demonstrated how Portuguese music inspires and connects cultures across borders.
Over 11 days, this programme showcased Portugal's commitment to artistic and cultural creation, authentically and innovatively underlining the richness of its heritage.
Over 11 days, this programme showcased Portugal's commitment to artistic and cultural creation, authentically and innovatively underlining the richness of its heritage.
