An Industrial Design study abroad program.
Summer, 2024.
University of Washingon +
Shih Chien University +
National Chung Kung University
Sustainability
Cross-cultural design
Traditional craftsmanship
The “Design in Taiwan” program focused on exploring sustainable innovations in craft and technology through traditional craft workshops, design studio tours, and design sprints.
Led by design educators from three universities, I had the opportunity to collaborate with other industrial design students across a series of design sprints.
TRADITIONAL CRAFT WORKSHOPS
Throughout my time in Taiwan, I participated in and translated traditional craft workshops taught by master artisans. I learned about material properties, techniques, and traditions through conversations with locals and craftsmen.
BAMBOO CRAFT — NANTOU
INDIGO DYEING — TAINAN
CERAMIC POTTERY — TAIHUA POTTERY FACTORY
DESIGN SPRINTS
Collaborating with students from Shih Chien University (SCU) and National Chung Kung University (NCKU), we explored cultural differences, taking inspiration from our discussions to develop designs that are culturally accessible.
Focusing on the intersection of traditional craft and modern technology, we created thoughtful and sustainable products.
My team created a knotted chair inspired by traditional Asian rattan chairs and made with a variety of recycled materials.
Inspired by the texture of pomelo skin and learning about natural fibers, we wanted to use waste generated by fruit stands in Taiwan to create an alternative to traditional paper.