Instituto de Artesanato Visconde de Mauá
Rua Gregorio de Matos s/n, Pelourinho
About
Founded by the government to promote and support regional artists, the institute is an excellent place to get a feel for Bahian arts and crafts. There are weavings, hammocks, furniture, woodcarvings, and ceramics. Prices are fixed. To see future artists at work take a peek at the third floor, where students learn the traditional arts through workshops and apprenticeships. Just as any American can grow up to be president, every Baiano has the potential to be an artist. As the saying goes, "O baiano não nasce, estreia" -- a Baiano isn't born, he premiers. Institute and shop are open Monday and Wednesday through Friday 8am to 7pm, and Tuesday 8am to 6pm. The shop is also open Saturday and Sunday 10am to 4pm.
