This research project proposes the formation of “Localised Design Practice” as a new
framework for working between Thai designers and Thai hand weavers. The overarching
principle is that the disciplinary knowledge of design is localised and evolves according
to what has been learnt from the local knowledge. This framework is directed to form
long-lasting and mutually beneficial development projects for the designers and the
weavers. The research project has emerged from a concern with the politics of
knowledge in that the disciplinary knowledge of design is considerably more dominant
than the local knowledge of hand weaving in current textiles design development
projects in Thailand. This state of affairs poses the risk that local knowledge is suppressed
and diminished by the act of design development.
This research project was realised through a hybrid methodology utilizing theoretical
frameworks of critical ethnography and grounded theory with apprenticeship and
making practices. The research activities were divided into two parts. The first part
explored apprenticeship and learning Thai hand weaving within its contexts in Thailand.
The second part aimed at the integration of the two forms of knowledge, research being
conducted both in the UK and Thailand.
The research has identified that, although Thai hand weaving and design are
fundamentally different, they share many qualities, hence knowledge integration is
actually possible. Further research could test this framework to make changes in real
settings, and to study the applicability of this framework in other contexts.