Craftech
1.1 IntroductionProject Craftech is an introduction to the new realm of artisan which beautifies handmade through beautiful storytelling. The project unfolds the future evolution of craft, as craftsmanship and technology unite in innovation rather than technology as a means to replace craft. Hereby, craftspersons are showcased as the leaders of cultural sustainability, their knowledge is treasured as ancestral knowledge of harmonious living with nature in sync with the pace and seasons of Earth. As technology propels us from iPods to iPhones in a decade, the inquiry arises: Should crafts remain static? The current state of technological advancements is studied from the grassroots level of the supply chain, the makers.
This project envisions a new ecosystem for crafts, emphasizing mastery, skill appreciation, and the preservation of ancestral knowledge using innovative tools. Hereby, the evolution of craft is showcased through the craft of handblock printing.In project Craftech, technology is integrated into craft without compromising craftsmanship, celebrating the importance of skillsets.
In block printing, a critical stage involves artisans using handcrafted blocks to imprint fabric. Currently, this process requires multiple blocks and repetitive printing passes for different motif portions. The proposed use of VR headset technology aims to enhance precision in motif visualization, while optimizing the printing table for efficiency. Innovations include conveyor belt-style tables with renewable energy-powered dryers to eliminate drying wait times. (Animation 2)
There is integration of digital tools, such as Virtual Reality headsets, to streamline the carving process of wooden blocks in traditional crafts. Virtual visualisation expedites the design phase, replacing the time-consuming step of manually drawing motifs on blocks. Additionally, VR headsets facilitate artisan collaboration, allowing for interaction and feedback, contributing to skill development (Animation 1).
Collaborative craftsmanship, as opposed to individualistic approaches, embraces a co-creation model where designers, engineers, biologists, and artisans collaborate in a dynamic workspace, breaking professional boundaries (Animation 3)