Innovative businessmodeling for crafts
Abstract
Tracks4Crafts is set to examine and transform the transmission of traditional crafts knowledge (hence TCK) to achieve an enhanced societal and economic valuation of crafts and to align them with a future-oriented approach to heritage in Europe. TCK is understood as a concept (inspired by WIPO and empowered by the intangible heritage paradigm of UNESCO) covering craft knowledge, craft know-how, and craft skills. By enhancing the valuation of TCK we mean (1) reviving crafts, i.e., safeguarding traditional crafts knowledge and building capacities to support communities that can sustain transmission of TCK; (2) valorizing crafts, i.e., stimulating the contribution of TCK and making it more transferable to the economy and society; (3) validating crafts, i.e., analyzing, defining and enhancing crafts people’s professional position and recognition of TCK. TCK is developed, transformed, and passed on from generation to generation, often in the context of ‘heritage communities’ or specific networks which link their identity to craft as a ‘tradition.’ Yet, as ‘intangible cultural heritage’ (ICH), it is now addressed from a future-oriented perspective, in which cultural heritage is seen as a resource for sustainable development and quality of life in a constantly evolving society (Faro Convention, 2005). Cultural Heritage in Action (EU-Action 2020) states that investing in cultural heritage is strategic for both cities and regions and for the economy and competitiveness, and culture. As ICH, traditional crafts can yield an important share in these benefits, but a decline in access to and validation of TCK could hamper the full development and deployment of their societal and economic benefits (KEA report 2019), keeping their potential largely untapped (e.g., Future for Crafts).