Sharp shapes

• • Francisco preserves a traditional Canary Island craft
• • He uses many different techniques
• • He is a third-generation craftsperson

Found only in Gran Canaria, the Spanish island located in the Atlantic Ocean, the unique Canary knives reflect its culture. Francisco Torres Rodríguez, the third generation in his family to master this craft, has been working on keeping the tradition alive in the same workshop his father and teacher, Rafael Torres Osorio, used to work in. Francisco still remembers and cherishes the first knife he made because it was what convinced him to dedicate his life to this craft. Ever since, making exclusively unique pieces, he considers himself to be on a journey of playful creativity where ideas become a reality. Gran Canaria knifes, although still used in field-related activities, have become important decorative pieces and personal gifts as much for royals as for shepherds.