PROMOTING NEW WEAVERS WITH SUSTAINABLE DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Abstract

The research project titled “Promoting New Weavers with Sustainable Design Principles” is a qualitative study. The project has two primary aims: first, to examine the status of the new generation of weavers; and second, to facilitate the transfer of craft knowledge from master craftsmen while supporting these weavers in creating new works that incorporate sustainable design principles. The research methods involve multiple stages. It begins with a background study of the identified context and a planning phase. The activities are then divided into three stages. The first stage involves assessing the status of the new weavers and recruiting participants. The second stage focuses on teaching craft skills, drawing from the expertise of master craftsmen and the principles of sustainable design. The third stage supports participants in creating new works. Finally, the collected data is analysed and summarised.

The project outputs include: 1) a study on promoting new weavers through sustainable design principles; 2) three programme outlines for craft practice and sustainable design principles; 3) eleven textile artworks; 4) a project summary video. 5) six members of an academic network; and 6) four institutional partnerships. The research project concludes that sustainable design principles are effective tools for developing new weavers. Furthermore, the support programme should equip participants with additional knowledge and skills in marketing, management, and design to enhance the development of local textiles for contemporary commercial markets in the future.