Research on the design summary of the Yuan-Li rush weaving industry

The preservation and renovation of the traditional crafts industry is important to Associate Professor Wei-Ken Hung, Department of Industrial Design, National United University (NUU), Taiwan. He is working to achieve this through a collaborative partnership between NUU and traditional craftspeople from within the industry. His goal is to apply his research to the revitalisation and preservation of Taiwan’s Yuan-Li rush weaving industry. The industry is under pressure due to economic challenges caused by high manual costs and high commissions from external Channels. Indeed, many traditional crafts are facing such challenges, with modernisation and globalisation having a negative impact. Research has found that inability to scale up production, the high cost of craft-ship and limited supply of skilled workers are contributing to the decline of the traditional crafting industry. This is along with high commission rates that impact on profitability, making the professional unappealing to younger generations. In his cross disciplinary, collaborative research, Hung’s main goal is the introduction of design strategies into the Yuan-Li industry; supporting the weaving industry through the NUU’s Department of Industrial Design. He is working to facilitate collaborations between artisans and the NUU, in order to push forward innovations through social engagement. By partnering with local organisations to promote their industry the NUU is expanding its market reach and economic sustainability. The local community benefits from increased visibility and economic opportunities while students and researchers expand their understanding of cultural preservation, social responsibility and sustainable design.