Research area
Craft Process and Traditional Knowledge Documentation
The Centre documents diverse Indian craft traditions through interviews, demonstrations, field observations, and multimedia records. It…
Research area
Science and Technology Behind Craft
The “Science Behind Craft” research connects traditional artisan knowledge with science and technology. It examines materials, tools, processes, and their properties through experiments to validate traditional practices and develop safe, affordable improvements while preserving craft skills and knowledge.
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The “Science Behind Craft” research investigates the scientific knowledge embedded in traditional craft practices. It connects artisan experience with material science, chemistry, physics, engineering, ergonomics, environmental studies and design.
The research examines why artisans select particular materials, how materials are prepared, what physical and chemical changes occur during production, and how tools interact with wood, bamboo, cane, clay, metal, fabric and dyes. It also studies properties such as moisture, grain, hardness, flexibility, porosity, adhesion, colour fixation, surface roughness, heat transfer and durability.
The studies do not assume that traditional practices are automatically scientific or effective. Instead, artisan claims are carefully documented and converted into research questions that can be tested through experiments. The findings can help explain traditional practices, identify evidence gaps and suggest safe and affordable improvements.
Detailed work has been undertaken on wood-carving traditions, Udayagiri Wooden Cutlery and Dabu hand block printing. Future reports will gradually extend this framework to other craft and material groups
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