T

he seventh edition of Xtant opens on May 9th for a four-day long event that highlights the beauty of craft and community. Xtant has steadily grown over the last several years, expanding into the vast Can Vivot Palace, in Palma, adding additional workshops and a comprehensive series of talks and discussions, in addition to their leadership program that takes place ahead of the fair itself. Organised by Kavita Parmar, the theme for the event this year is NOMAD, which was inspired in part by the UN declaring 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. “NOMAD is a way of taking a moment to reflect on the knowledge and experience of a kinder coexistence with nature that the few remaining nomadic tribes keep alive,” writes Parmar. NOMAD also offers a moment of reflection and admiration for incredibly talented people who have dedicated their lives to their craft. It serves as a reminder to celebrate these living traditions.

This year, 90 artists from over 35-countries will be showing their work at Can Vivot. The opportunity to see such a diverse, talented group of artists, artisans and designers together under one roof, and within the historical arches of Can Vivot, is a unique, sensory experience. While most come from countries around the world, there are a handful of local Mallorcan artists and makers featured in the event including Sylvia Sanchez, Tatiana Sarasa, Leela Romero and Araceli Iranzo. But the event helps shine a light on the island’s dynamic creative scene. The work seen at the fair ranges from heritage textiles to embroidery to block prints, indigo dye and beyond. As Parmar writes: “Xtant is dedicated to the maintaining and nurturing of the small and different textile traditions found in remote corners of the world. Seeking to re-assert local fashion, local artisanry, and a local circle from which people would again purchase their everyday clothes.”