Twigger Holroyd, A, Cassidy, T, Evans, M et al. (2 more authors) (2015) Design for ‘domestication’: the decommercialisation of traditional crafts. In: Valentine, L, Borja de Mozota, B, Nelson, J, Merter, S and Atkinson, P, (eds.) Proceedings of the 11th International Conference of the European Academy of Design. 11th International Conference of the European Academy of Design, 22-24 Apr 2015, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France. European Academy of Design ISBN 978-1-84387-393-8
Abstract
This paper explores the contribution of design to the ‘domestication’ of traditional crafts: the reframing and support of such practices as amateur activities. Informed by twelve examples, six design strategies for the domestication of traditional crafts are identified and discussed. This issue emerges from a research project investigating the role of design in developing and revitalising culturally significant designs, products and associated practices. Within this paper, we focus on strategies that seek to revitalise traditional crafts by supporting domestic activity. This topic is introduced through a discussion of commercialisation, a more common approach to revitalisation.
Two contemporary social trends support domestication: the strong interest – particularly in post-industrial countries – in provenance, local distinctiveness and authenticity; and the growth of maker culture and its ethos of amateur creativity.
We gather twelve examples of various formats – such as books, kits, online communities, videos, workshops and holidays – which support amateur activity. The examples are analysed via a matrix, which considers their characteristics in terms of two variables: the way in which knowledge is exchanged, and the degree of experimentation facilitated by the activity. By categorising the examples, we identify six domestication strategies, each of which involves a different combination of design activities. Finally, we discuss domestication in terms of skill and innovation, arguing that amateur practice has much to offer in both respects.
Metadata
Item Type: | Proceedings Paper |
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Authors/Creators: |
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Editors: |
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Keywords: | tradition; craft; culture; revitalisation; amateur; design strategy |
Dates: |
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Institution: | The University of Leeds |
Academic Units: | The University of Leeds > Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures (Leeds) > School of Design (Leeds) |
Funding Information: | Funder Grant number Arts & Humanities Research Council AHRC AH/K008021/1 |
Depositing User: | Symplectic Publications |
Date Deposited: | 16 Aug 2018 15:57 |
Last Modified: | 16 Aug 2018 15:57 |
Published Version: | https://ead.yasar.edu.tr/conferences/ead-11-france... |
Status: | Published |
Publisher: | European Academy of Design |
Open Archives Initiative ID (OAI ID): | oai:eprints.whiterose.ac.uk:92396 |