Artisanal Heritage
Category: Accessories
Competitions: UK, International
"Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations," - UNESCO. My project Artisanal Heritage explores the significance of heritage and craft in shaping our history, tradition, culture, and identity. It draws inspiration from protected heritage sites across the UK that preserve the stories of our ancestors and our society’s evolution. Additionally, it sheds light on endangered rural crafts listed on the HCA’s red list. These crafts are living testaments to our cultural identity, reflecting our customs and traditions. My project merges traditional techniques with contemporary designs. By combining leatherwork, crochet, and machine knitting, I bridge the gap between the past and the present, breathing new life into our heritage. Influenced by brands like Loewe, known for their emphasis on traditional craftsmanship and quality, I emphasise the value of handmade items and the beauty of artisanal techniques. Today, the appreciation for handmade skilled crafts and value of quality has been overshadowed by the fast-paced, mass-produced nature of the fashion industry. Consumers need to remember there is beauty and value in the way every piece is different, unique, and humanised. Aligned with current trends of sustainability and social responsibility, I utilise natural materials such as veg-tanned leather and cotton yarns. These materials offer durability, longevity and sustainability compared to synthetic alternatives, further aligning with the project’s concept. The primary aim of this project is to raise awareness about endangered crafts and encourage engagement with traditional techniques. Artisanal heritage serves as a reminder of the diversity and authenticity present in our heritage crafts. It encourages us to value the individuality and craftsmanship of handmade items in a world dominated by uniform mass production. By safeguarding our cultural legacy, the project invites us to reconnect with our roots, fostering a sense of pride and connection to our heritage. Through this journey, we preserve our traditions, nurture our cultural identity, and pass down this rich legacy to future generations.
