Design and the qualities of craft

During my research, I’ve studied craft through various lenses as a way to explore the realm of meaningful experiences within material culture. It is through an understanding of materials and process, through craft, that we may appreciate the value and impact of our material culture. By considering both the object and the systems it exists in, I have clarified my understanding of sustainable material culture. My explorations with reuse materials culminate in utilizing standardized, industrially manufactured parts, which can be found in multiples, to facilitate small batch production of crafted items. These explorations are not about the singular crafted object, but multiple crafted products. Craft, unlike conventional industrial design, accommodates a conversation between material, maker and methods. An understanding of both practical conventions and experimental methods paired with an appreciation for materials and technique, craft is the foundation for thoughtful making. The convergence of design and craft is rich territory for developing sensible and purposeful objects that are truthful and valuable.