Francisco Torres Rodríguez

Knife maker

©Ari Moreno

©Francisco Torres

©Ari Moreno

©Francisco Torres

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.

Interview

©Francisco Torres

©Francisco Torres

What does quality mean to you?: I would define it as something well accomplished. For my part, I always try my best possible, keeping on working on a piece until it’s right. It’s the search for perfection.
What surprises clients the most?: Some people can’t believe that the decorative parts are made out of goat’s, ram’s, cow’s and bull’s horns until I show them the process in person. Only then they see how I create the inlays and understand the amount of work that goes into every single knife I make.
How important are innovation and tradition in your work?: The techniques I use don’t change, it’s an old tradition, and I prefer working with materials associated with Canary knives. When I do experiment with something new, I always have a tradition as a reference point.
What do you love about your job?: I love everything. Being able to have an idea and translate it into something that will be preserved in time brings me great joy. From the idea, cutting, inlays, I just enjoy creating.

Francisco Torres Rodríguez is a master artisan: he began his career in 1977 and he started teaching in 1981