GEOMETRIC PATTERN DESIGN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PADDY MOTIFS: A CRAFT-DESIGN COLLABORATION IN THE KELARAI BERTAM WEAVING COMMUNITY

The traditional craft industry faces challenges of modernization and changing consumer demands, leading to a decline in the use of local craft products. One of the main challenges is the difficulty of adapting traditional designs to meet current market demands. This study aims to explore the potential of craft-design collaboration in creating new motifs for kelarai bertam weaving, focusing on the adaptation of geometric concepts and inspiration from local flora, specifically paddy plants, in Kedah. Using a qualitative approach through case study methods, this research involved observations, semi-structured interviews, and design workshops with the kelarai bertam weaving craft community in Sik, Kedah. The collaboration process lasted eight months, during which designers worked with craft practitioners to develop new motifs. The study's findings show that the collaboration between designers and craft practitioners enhanced their understanding of market needs while enriching the aesthetic value of the new woven motifs. As a result, the craft practitioners were exposed to modern design techniques, while the designers learned about cultural values and heritage art skills. This study has significant implications for the development of kelarai bertam weaving crafts. It also proposed the need for ongoing support from educational institutions and government agencies to promote the craft-design collaboration model in enhancing the competitiveness of Malaysian craft products in the global market.