Author(s): Tania Ursomarzo
This paper examines the potential of indigenous woven handcrafts in different parts of Africa to reimagine applications to contemporary design, contribute to cultural heritage, economic development, and the future of sustainable design and making. The paper investigates an infrastructure that reimagines both the role of the contemporary artisan, and the social and economic system within which they operate in Africa.The artisan, a respected member of society, sustains cultural heritage through their practice of indigenous crafts which utilize natural, locally available, biodegradable, renewable materials. However, the value of traditional handcrafts as a unique and environmentally responsible form of making continues to be reduced to decorative objects rather than exploring its potential as a design and architectural technology. Could the craftsperson that makes baskets also construct homes? The paper positions the artisan as an independent artist, multi-label manufacturer, and fabricator that works at the scale of object and space. Further, the paper questions whether the application of indigenous craft to contemporary design can expand the repertoire of the artisan and create socio-economic opportunities while raising awareness about the importance of preserving and valuing traditional craftsmanship.Visits to and interviews with craftspeople and craft communities examine a people-centered approach to design and making, as well as demonstrate the challenges of sustaining indigenous handcrafts in a way that supports the culture and economy of Africans. Despite the large presence and practice of indigenous weaving in Africa compared to other parts of the world today, the skills of talented and knowledgeable crafts- people are not utilized beyond decorative objects destined for export to home furnishings stores. The paper argues that communities which educate and support each other in a variety of ways, transfer valuable knowledge and skills generating economic empowerment and cultural connection.Collaborations with African weavers explore the application of basket, knitting, and crochet weaving techniques to architectural design. Through documented experiential, auto-ethnographical research and creative production, the paper will investigate the use of design as a tool to elevate craft in a way that advances its techniques and expands its applications. By opening pathways that evolve woven hand- crafts and permit community-based non-formal education and transmission of skills, the paper looks at a programmatic sustainability that is about building networks that support creative and economic growth preventing communities from being dependent upon the outside. Lastly, the paper analyses the potential of material collaborations between designers and artisans to reimagine the ways in which we live and create, making woven handcraft relevant to contemporary design, culture, and technology.
Volume Editors
ISBN
978-1-944214-49-4