Repositioning the Place of Indigenous Craft
Craft and culture go tightly hand-in-hand, embedded deeply in everyday life. Differing from fashion items that are designed specifically to meet aesthetic and functional needs, craft develops and transforms, with visible traces of its journey in its people’s history.
Pictured left;
Our popular Tote Bags showcase intricate traditional patterns that have been passed down for generations, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship and valuable artisanal knowledge.
The practicality of craft and its humble position as an everyday item that goes through intense usage has made traditional craft an afterthought in the eyes of many. A throwaway item that doesn’t require much attention. Somehow lessening its value in our society - despite the fact that it’s a time-intensive, handmade product that should command more respect.
Our annual impact report is published in part to highlight our work in promoting traditional craftand our efforts in repositioning its place in our society. We believe that these beautiful creations are a cause for celebration, and we aim to show the continued creativity and expertise our artisans employ in creating coveted products that are easy to fall for.
Pictured above; A summary of events held by HANDEP aimed to promote traditional Dayak culture, as part of our commitment to cultural preservation.
In 2022, HANDEP hosted and participated in two cultural events in four cities across three different countries, exhibiting local craft while educating those on our sustainable products, reaching a total of 3,750+ people.
Pictured right; Weavers taught workshop participants held at John Hardy Boutique & Gallery at Seminyak the basics of Dayak weaving.
Through all the events - which are explained in greater detail in our 2022 Impact Report - we brought the public closer to our partner indigenous Dayak artisans.
One of our most important events is the Dayak Arts and Cultural Exhibition (DANCE), an annual exhibition that is aimed at educating the public about the Dayak indigenous culture; from its intensely flavorful food and beverages, the music which resonates long after the last string of the sape’ is plucked, to workshops that bring the public straight to our weavers’ doorstep. Learning and laughing with our artisans, to create greater visibility for our Dayak partners.
The glimpse of how today’s Dayak communities are preserving centuries-old traditions and techniques, all while living harmoniously and protecting the lush, rain-forest environment that we all rely on is a vital part of connecting Dayak culture with the outside world, to give better understanding and appreciation of it.
Advocacy is a cold word to describe our work with our partners. We’ve immersed ourselves in the rich culture that is the roots of the crafts we promote, and we aim to invite more people to appreciate the importance and significance traditional craft has in a rapidly modernized society. Bringing almost forgotten history back to life.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR IMPACT
Browse through our past Impact Reports to keep tract of our activities and the positive impact we create.
