The international exhibition has opened a space for artisans and cultural representatives from the Antofagasta Region to showcase their creations to visitors from Chile and abroad, strengthening regional identity, tourism and the connection between community and industry.
EXPONOR 2026 is not only a platform for mining, energy and innovation. It is also a space dedicated to highlighting the cultural richness and heritage of the Antofagasta Region. This year, 42 regional artisans and cultural heritage bearers are participating in the international exhibition, presenting products inspired by the traditions, crafts and cultural expressions that define the region’s identity.
Textiles, embroidery, heritage crafts, pieces inspired by Chile’s historic nitrate pampas culture, and creations linked to Indigenous communities are among the offerings that thousands of national and international visitors can discover throughout the four-day exhibition.
Andrea Moreno, General Manager of EXPONOR, highlighted that “EXPONOR is an international showcase for mining and energy, but also for the territory that makes the development of these industries possible. That is why it is so important to create spaces for our regional artisans and cultural heritage bearers, as they allow us to share with the world the identity, history and heritage of the Antofagasta Region, while also strengthening tourism and creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs.”
Aracelly Marín, President of the Antofagasta Regional Artisans Corporation, emphasized the importance of participating in the exhibition, stating that “for us, it is very important to be part of EXPONOR because it allows us to showcase our cultural heritage to Chile and the world. This space, which was created through a partnership with the Antofagasta Industrial Association and has grown stronger throughout the different editions of the exhibition, opens opportunities for us to connect with companies, visitors and potential clients, highlighting the talent of our artisans and demonstrating that culture, identity and traditions are also a fundamental part of the region’s development.”
Among the participants is Ángel Trigo, founder of Pampacilo, a local enterprise dedicated to creating heritage crafts inspired by the history of the nitrate industry and life in Chile’s nitrate pampas. “It is a wonderful experience to be here because prominent visitors from around the world attend the exhibition. It is an exceptional showcase for presenting our work and sharing part of the history of the pampas with people who may never have had contact with this heritage. These first days have been very positive, and the public’s response has made us very happy,” he commented.
Also participating is Esmeralda Ramos, a member of Bordadoras de Solor of San Pedro de Atacama, a group that creates embroidered artworks inspired by traditional Atacameño cultural festivals, as well as textile garments made from alpaca, llama and sheep wool. The artisan stated that “this is an excellent opportunity to showcase our products, first among fellow artisans and also to visitors from other regions and abroad. Many people appreciate our work and take these pieces to different parts of the world, helping to share our culture and traditions internationally.”
The participation of regional artisans and cultural heritage bearers forms part of the various initiatives promoted by EXPONOR 2026 to strengthen the connection between industry, community and territory, promoting a holistic approach to development and positioning the Antofagasta Region not only as a mining, energy, industrial and port hub, but also as a destination with a unique cultural identity and internationally recognized heritage.
