Abstract

This article presents the primary results of a research exercise deconstructing transdisciplinary models of intervention bringing social change, dynamization, and positive impact into rural areas through crafts and design collaborations. The experiences analyzed brought together designers, craftspeople, and local communities in dialogue, collaboration, and co-creation connections based on design methods, crafts heritage, land resources, and local knowledge. The tools include a primary literature review and multiple case study mapping and analysis. Qualitative research methods allow us to study the connections between personal, social, organizational, cultural, and environmental factors. The case study methodology has been used to extract complexities and particularities. Data collected has been structured in a comparative table of crucial elements such as collaborative methods, organizational models, creative processes, the role played by crafts and design, and the impact generated. This research exercise aims to identify a framework that systematizes those relevant elements and suggests potential transdisciplinary approaches to foster sustainable social innovation initiatives in rural areas through craftsdesign collaborations. The CraftsDesign Framework will evolve into a collaborative tool kit to be tested, evaluated, and re-designed through workshops in simulated and authentic contexts. The findings from the experience will inform the PhD research project conducted by the researcher aimed at identifying sustainable social innovation solutions based on the occasion of design practice.