University of the Pacific · Spring 2014
Student proposals, local knowledge.
Students in Marie Anna Lee’s Graphic Design I course proposed products that artisans in Dimen could make using local materials and recognizable Kam motifs.
The proposals aimed to contribute design ideas that could be refined with the makers themselves—not to replace their expertise or treat cultural motifs as decoration alone.
STUDENT WORK
Prototypes for consideration
The source archive documents a group of proposals from Pacific students. The works include fabric objects, small accessories and product packaging that apply local patterns in contemporary contexts.
METHOD
Design as a dialogue
Concepts, feedback, and local production
The aim was to develop ideas that could be tested and adapted with community collaborators, using the materials and techniques available locally. Product making provided opportunities for students to consider sustainability, cross-cultural collaboration and practical production constraints.
Read original project documentation (archived)
The text below documents the project as originally described. Plans, prices and production status refer to that period, not current conditions.
The Spring 2014 Arts 75 Graphic Design I students proposed simple products that Dimen artisans can easily produce in the village with available materials and sell either in village stores or market abroad. The students have applied local aesthetics and design motifs to the items. Based on the project's outcomes, the Kam Heritage Project team has work with Dimen artisans to realize these ideas in the local setting. The ultimate goal is to empower local artisans and designers to carry their local identity and cultural heritage into the digital age by giving them the tools and technological knowhow.