Bobbin lace : it's economic and social role in Gozo

Abstract

Lace making is a traditional art on the Island of Gozo and many Gozitans are extremely proud of their unique and valued bobbin lace works. Lace not only once fulfilled an economic role within the lives of the Gozitans; it also had a significant social aspect to fulfill. On present day Gozo, handmade lace has not retained its important economic role as it has been replaced in the recent past with factory and tourist related jobs; as well as the fact that the price of lace has not kept up with the cost to weave these intricate pieces. Not only is the reasons for the decline in lace’s economic function a focus, so is whether or not this art form will continue after the current older generation of Gozitans are gone. This is an important question to be asked since Gozitan lace is distinctive from any other form of lace and it is a highly prized item by Gozitan and foreigners alike. The capacity in which lace will continue is significant and what is being done by the people themselves to save this art form is also taken into consideration.