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Citation: Partarakis, N.; Zabulis, X.
Safeguarding Traditional Crafts in
Europe. Encyclopedia 2023,3,
1244–1261. https://doi.org/10.3390/
encyclopedia3040090
Academic Editor: Raffaele Barretta
Received: 29 August 2023
Revised: 21 September 2023
Accepted: 25 September 2023
Published: 5 October 2023
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Entry
Safeguarding Traditional Crafts in Europe
Nikolaos Partarakis * and Xenophon Zabulis
Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Computer Science, N. Plastira 100, Vassilika Vouton,
GR-70013 Heraklion, Crete, Greece; zabulis@ics.forth.gr
*Correspondence: partarak@ics.forth.gr; Tel.: +30-2810391754
Definition:
This entry discusses the challenge of safeguarding crafts in Europe. Safeguarding is
defined herein as the systematic process of understanding, representing, preserving, and valoriz-
ing crafts following the recommendations of UNESCO and the UN-World Tourism Organization.
The abovementioned challenges are discussed through a multidisciplinary prism starting from the
scientific challenges in the information and communication technologies sector and expanding the
discussion to ethical, legal, and policy-making measures and recommendations to safeguard crafts as
a form of tangible and intangible cultural heritage but also as a source of growth and impact for the
communities that practice them. To this end, the role of education and training for craft preservation
is discussed, considering that the declining number of practitioners and apprentices is considered
today the main threat to their preservation.
Keywords: crafts; craft understanding; craft representation; craft preservation; craft valorization
1. Introduction
Crafts have been an important part of the European cultural and historical identity
since the Industrial Revolution, the establishment of applied art schools, and the Arts and
Crafts [
1
] and the Bauhaus movements [
2
]. At the same time, craft history is related to
the origins of modern societies, history, culture, and local traditions, as well as personal
and family memories, to which all general audiences can relate. The study of crafts in
social, historical, and economic contexts reveals aspects of Europe’s history (e.g., [
3
]), the
impact of global events, and technological progress in different locations in Europe, as
well as memories of past European societies and their current values. The internationally
celebrated vocabulary of traditional and contemporary European designs, as well as those
from local sociohistorical contexts, are reused and promoted through their diffusion in new
products [4].
Crafts are an important and recognized component of European cultural heritage
(CH). Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) forms an important part of Europe’s cultural and
historical identity, while crafts comprise a pillar of European culture and European cultural
industries. Many crafts have common roots all around Europe, while influences vary
according to region and context.
This entry discuss the urgent matter of safeguarding crafts in Europe. Their decline
will negatively affect our understanding of European culture and CH and will be followed
by the social and economic de-valorization of the regions, communities, and countries
in which they are practiced. This article starts with a discussion on the current state of
the art in Section 2, followed by an overview of the technical progress achieved toward a
scientific methodology and tools for the representation and presentation of crafts as a first
step towards their preservation (Section 3). Of course, this cannot be achieved without the
help of craft communities, which are the core of our craft traditions. Their empowerment is
the main topic of discussion in Section 4. In the globalized economy, while facing mass-
production countries, craft communities should be equipped with the appropriate tools to
protect their intellectual property, design, and know-how by facilitating existing protection
Encyclopedia 2023,3, 1244–1261. https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia3040090 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/encyclopedia
Encyclopedia 2023,31245
methods and making the most out of the European legislation currently in effect. These
subjects are discussed in depth in Section 5. Finally, Section 6discusses the preservation
of craft practice. It is argued that by empowering formal and informal education, a new
generation of European craft masters will emerge. This entry concludes with a collection of
policy recommendations to further support the goal of safeguarding crafts in Europe and
future research directions.
The contribution of this work is summarized as a systematic attempt to identify the
current landscape of crafts safeguarding by summarizing existing methods, tools, research
efforts, and legal instruments. At the same time, it provides concrete directions to support
the further utilization of each of the above to further empower safeguarding efforts at all
levels. As such, it can be used as a guide to craft representation and presentation projects.
Furthermore, it lays the foundations for future work both at research and policy levels and
highlights the necessary building blocks according to a wide, multidisciplinary perspective.
It is aspired that this work has the potential to engage more people from interdisciplinary
domains in safeguarding traditional crafts as living heritage, a source of common traditions,
and a sustainable form of eco-friendly production and heritage valorization.
2. Background
This section provides orientation regarding the significance and value of traditional
crafts, highlighting the urgency of their safeguarding. Further background information will
be presented as part of the authors’ deeper research into each of the identified components
of safeguarding as the systematic process of understanding, representing, preserving,
and valorizing crafts. These will be complemented when appropriate with best practice
examples for the utilization of the current state of the art.
2.1. Crafts in Europe
Crafts hold a place in Europe’s history, shaped by pivotal periods like the Industrial
Revolution [
5
]. Their value extends beyond mere artisanal skills, as crafts offer insights
into historical, societal, and economic dimensions. To appreciate their true significance, one
must consider these broader contexts.
Europe’s cultural heritage institutions (CHIs) and creative and cultural industries
(CCIs) assume crucial roles in the EU economy and the flourishing tourism sector. Their
involvement in the preservation and promotion of crafts, which represent both tangible
and intangible cultural heritage, can yield substantial benefits. It underscores the symbiotic
relationship between crafts, cultural institutions, and the creative economy, highlighting
the potential for mutual growth and enrichment.
Craft has significance for Europe since it promotes integration of diverse European
societies, thus contributing to the formulation of a sense of belonging and the spread of
democratic and social values [
6
]. This is primarily the case for crafts, as many have a
common base across Europe and are of cross-border nature. As a form of ICH, crafts are
transmitted across generations, providing communities and individuals with a sense of
identity and continuity, creating more resilient, competitive, and culturally aware soci-
eties [7–9].
2.2. Traditional Crafts as an Economic Resource
In 2006, the global exports of crafts attained USD 186.5 billion [
10
] and are partic-
ularly important for the economy of developing countries [
11
], with Asia and Europe
leading global exports. For example, the Indian handicraft industry evolved rapidly from
USD 1.2 million
turnover in 2004 to USD 1.9 billion in 2006 [
12
]. However, after the eco-
nomic crisis, the share of craft products in the world was reduced to 2% [
12
]. Currently, it
is argued that supporting and streamlining the digital representation of ICH assists this
growth [13].
Tools for education play a pivotal role in upholding and ensuring the enduring sus-
tainability of the crafts economy [
14
]. By harnessing the economic benefits stemming from
Encyclopedia 2023,31246
the reuse of digital assets, substantial resources can be generated to support the preser-
vation of cultural heritage [
15
]. Consequently, the integration of digital documentation,
representation, and presentation has the potential to wield a favorable impact on crafts,
ushering in a promising era of advancement and preservation for this vital cultural domain.
2.3. Endangered Crafts and the Need for Preservation
In contemporary consumer-oriented societies, the widespread accessibility of low-
cost, mass-manufactured products has significantly diminished the market potential for
handmade crafts, relegating them to a niche market [
16
,
17
]. This shift has rendered crafts
vulnerable, particularly heritage crafts [
18
]. The underlying causes of this decline in crafts
vary across European nations, as identified by pertinent EU initiatives [19,20]:
•
Apprentice demotivation and lack of certification of craftsmanship and products. The
subject of certification is still under debate [21–24].
•Competition from cheaper products, especially products produced in Asia [25].
•
Regression of the workforce, and unlike what traditionally happened in the past [
26
],
there is little interest from young people in taking up these professions.
•Availability and price of raw or ‘natural’ materials [27].
•Lack of government incentives to support craft production and entrepreneurship.
•Limited or no financing for start-up craft businesses.
•
Crafts are associated only with heritage and the past, making them unattractive for
young people to choose a crafts-related profession in advanced economies.
2.4. Safeguarding Crafts
This entry starts with the assumption that safeguarding is a complex challenge that
cannot be addressed by focusing on a single level of intervention. As such, safeguarding
is defined herein as a collection of measures that include understanding, representing,
preserving, and valorizing. Each measure has multiple dimensions that cannot be ex-
haustively addressed in a single contribution. It is aspired that through this work a basic
understanding of these aspects can be achieved, followed by recommendations on a policy
level regarding the future outlook of crafts in Europe.
2.5. Contribution
As a concrete contribution, this work analyzes the existing state of the art at multiple
levels, and the authors contribute to a roadmap for their safeguarding both at scientific and
policy levels. This work can thus function both as a how-to guide for craft representation
and presentation projects and a valuable source of fine-tuning for future research attempts
in the domain. At a policy level, valuable recommendations are made to further support
craft entrepreneurship at a European level.
3. Understanding and Representing Crafts through Digitization
Despite their cultural value, endeavors to represent crafts are fragmented across dif-
ferent regions and themes. In this entry, techniques for building craft representations are
explored, alongside ethical aspects related to such digitization initiatives. These represen-
tations rely on digital resources, semantic data, and pre-existing literature, as well as on
well-established digitization and representation techniques, and they have the capacity to
capture and safeguard both the tangible and intangible dimensions of crafts.
3.1. A Scientific Methodology
Addressing the urgent need for the preservation of crafts was the main objective of
the Mingei Horizon 2020 project [
28
] and was manifested through a methodology for their
representation, supporting the curation of digital assets [
29
]. The representation achieved
through the Mingei approach is proficient in encompassing a wide range of knowledge
related to crafts. It encompasses aspects such as the craft’s objects and their creation, the
Encyclopedia 2023,31247
hand movements and tool utilization that define the motor skills involved in crafts, as well
as the societal, economic, and historical importance of crafts.
Achieving a representation of crafts is the first step in the digital conservation of
knowledge, but it is not a simple task at all, due to the multiplicity of craft dimensions,
and the heterogeneity of data, knowledge, and contexts. To systematize and replicate craft
representations for the multiplicity and diversity of crafts, the Mingei craft representation
protocol has been developed as a method and accompanied by the technical tools to
implement this method [
30
]. The Mingei protocol is a proposed method comprising
guidelines, tools, and instructions that are based on the state of the art in the humanities,
natural sciences, and computer science [
30
]. An ontology and supporting controlled
vocabularies have been developed to properly encode and digitally preserve the collected
knowledge [
31
] according to international, semantic web standards adopted by the cultural
heritage (CH) sector [32].
To achieve this goal, Mingei advanced the state of the art in terms of theoretical
organization of this knowledge by conceptualizing crafting processes, contextualization
narratives, and recipes that act as the connecting glue between the heterogeneous knowl-
edge elements and data [
33
]. This “glue” is implemented as formal semantic relations
that interconnect knowledge elements [
34
]. A layer of auxiliary tools was developed
and utilized to prepare content and provide multimodal access to the represented knowl-
edge [
35
–
37
]. The tools to implement the proposed organization were provided through a
semantic knowledge-authoring platform, the Mingei Online Platform (MOP) [38].
The MOP implements the systematic process for craft representation and presentation
as proposed by Mingei. This process can be summarized in a series of steps as follows.
In Step 1, the documentation is acquired in the form of digital assets that are relevant to
the representation of a craft. Based on these assets, knowledge about a craft is acquired
and semantically represented using MOP (Step 2). Subsequently, in Step 3, researchers
formulate several text-based narratives that present the targeted sociohistorical context.
These narratives are used to identify events and their causal dependencies to formulate
representations of fabulae. Then, in Step 4, narratives are considered as different ways
of telling the story. In Step 5, different presentations are created to explore multimodal
modalities using different technologies (e.g., the web, VR, AR, mobile devices, books, etc.).
In the same way, crafting processes are modeled following the abstraction of a process
schema and a process. The process schema defines what should ideally be carried out,
while the process represents an execution of the schema in the real world. Process schemas
are created in Step 3 and processed in Step 4. A variant presentation of a process is
the objective of Step 5. Following this step-by-step process, in Mingei, the MOP served
as the representation and digital preservation of knowledge. At the same time, due to
the underlying ontology, represented knowledge became compliant with international
standards and with the European Data Model (EDM) [39].
The literature has started to emerge recently, providing a theoretical basis for the
representation of ICH [
40
]. An approach toward defining a heritage craft representation
can be found in the ICCROM report on heritage crafts and their conservation [
41
]. This
report defines craft dimensions that are relevant to craft representation. The report sheds
light upon the fact that crafts in general encompass both tangible and intangible dimensions.
The state of the art was extended by providing crisp methods to identify and collect
knowledge on crafting processes and craft contextualization. Through this approach,
stakeholder diversity leads to a variety of needs and requirements. Craft representations
should make use of complementary views of the represented content.
The Mingei approach was validated in pilots that explored the potential of contribu-
tions to specific use cases in different learning contexts: informal education and leisure,
formal education, and craft-oriented tourism [42–44].
Encyclopedia 2023,31248
3.2. Ethical Considerations
Considering that the representation of a craft involves human participants, it is manda-
tory to satisfy several requirements. Ethics, data protection, and health and safety re-
quirements are an integral part of research in Europe from beginning to end, and ethical
compliance is pivotal for the success of the digitization project and the accessibility of its
results. Compliance with these requirements is not only respecting the legal framework
but also aiming to provide high-quality research, ownership, and sustainability of results.
In the case where the digitization project regards research with human participants,
the approval of designated ethics committees is a prerequisite. The designated ethics
committee for the digitization project should be identified and contacted at this stage. No
interaction with human participants is to take place unless pertinent ethics requirements
are satisfied. Compliance with data protection laws and health and safety regulations is
determined by identifying the environments and modalities of digitization. In Table 1,
pertinent requirements and relevant materials are summarized.
Table 1. Requirements for conducting research with human participants and relevant materials.
Requirement Material
Ethics European Commission’s ethics self-assessment guidance, Ethics Appraisal Procedure
Data protection GDPR law and additional national laws
Health and safety Usage guidelines and safety warnings of devices used in the digitization project, EU and national laws
for the transportation of goods, use of machinery, and manned or unmanned vehicles
The individual requirements of each human participant should be investigated, as
community members may belong to a sensitive population [
45
]. It is important to consider
that traditional craftspeople can be old and, as such, individual requirements for sensitive
population groups need to be considered and applied. These requirements also include
adapting to the mindset of indigenous communities or social groups [46].
In the case where the digitization project is carried out in collaboration with a CH
institution (CHI), this can also involve digitization and documentation of the description
of physical assets and collections of these institutions. These should be implemented by
acquiring appropriate licenses and can provide an initial orientation of the relevant assets
of the craft that is identified as relevant for digitization. The topic of insurance for artifacts
that are to be handled or digitized should be brought up and planned if relevant, according
to the conventional practices followed by content and asset owners [47].
CHIs and craft communities often have curated material already prepared in the form
of literature, guides, brochures, or even interactive multimedia presentations. Typically,
CHIs have a catalog of their items that includes digital collections, along with pertinent
metadata. In initial communications, it is important to specify these assets as potential
assets for the knowledge collection of the digitization project and ensure the provision of
appropriate usage rights concerning the objectives of the project.
4. Empowering Craft Communities
Crafts are traditionally practiced within communities with the same geographic ref-
erence due to the availability of natural resources and the transfer of knowledge and
know-how between generations (e.g., [
48
]). Today, craft communities still exist in a physical
location or are built through multiple forms of digital cooperation [
49
]. In all forms of
communities, a sense of belonging promotes inclusion, empowerment, and learning for
each individual and at the same time gives the opportunity to brand community products
and each person’s craft [
50
–
52
]. As such, crafting communities are still today considered
a source of reputation and valorization of crafts, and their empowerment is considered
fundamental for safeguarding crafts.
Encyclopedia 2023,31249
This section provides different activities out of which communities can gain more
value, reputation, and income.
4.1. Involving Craft Communities in Craft Preservation
The participation of craft communities in any digitization effort is fundamental and
beneficial both for the digitization project and the craft community. Waiting to start
digitizing all possible artifacts and interviewing all possible stakeholders and, only then,
trying to find the meaning of the acquired data without any help would lead to suboptimal
results. Collaborating with the practitioners and the community of the particular craft
will help obtain an understanding of the craft, its insights, and its essential concepts. For
formally encoding craft descriptions and comparatively understanding craft expression in
different times and places, curators, and the perspective of the humanities will be needed. In
all stages, walking together with local craft communities and scientific experts included in
the same group will concurrently support representation (i.e., documentation, inventorying,
description) and presentation (narration, practical and conceptual engagement, re-use).
This is essential even for the most practical reason of establishing a common understanding
and vocabulary about the topic at hand between collaborators.
4.2. Enhancing the Economic Potential of Craft Communities through Thematic and
Cultural Tourism
The development of local crafts can contribute to the provision of more sustainable
tourism services and resources [
53
,
54
]. ICH tourism such as craft experiences is associated
with prolonged visit durations, which are required for their appreciation and experi-
ence [55]. The World Tourism Organization of the United Nations (UNWTO) has stressed
the need to safeguard ICH and invest in sustainable tourism, together with local commu-
nities [
13
]. In this context, the participation of craft communities in the formulation of
thematic tourism products and services is central to the success of ICH tourism. At the
same time, tourism stakeholders benefit from tourism development alongside the local
society by establishing projects with communities [13].
Recent trends in CCIs [
56
] show that ICH tourism can be combined with digital di-
mensions provided electronically to increase interest and financial impact [
57
,
58
]. Such
approaches demonstrate the value of crafts in sustainable development by facilitating
income-making as a driving force for the preservation of crafts [
59
]. By providing competi-
tive, educational, and compelling tourism experiences, the visibility of European crafts can
be increased [
59
]. This can be further supported by craft digitization approaches that can
offer attractive presentations of crafts that engage interest and provide a comprehensive
and accurate picture of crafts. These are aligned with the UNWTO recommendation to
follow and support digital documentation and communication of ICH values [
13
]. Such
approaches can be built on top of international standards for the documentation of CH [
60
]
and the state of the art in interaction, narratives, and storytelling. Digital outputs of the
project provide content for tourism experiences and products. Education and delectation
content are carefully balanced, and selling goods through official outlets and licensed
retailers can provide a valuable source of financial income [13].
4.3. Capacity Building
The adoption of new technologies facilitates the evaluation, improvement, and further
deployment of digital approaches in traditional crafts. Through digital technologies and
capacity building in digital technologies, the craft sector can survive in the globalized
economy by investing in reputation building and distinctiveness by employing digital
media for promotion of the special know-how and identity [61,62].
4.4. Sustainable Innovation
Craft products exhibit a local identity that is directly linked to their reputation, external
appearance, and know-how for making them. Promoting crafts, thus, highlights the need
Encyclopedia 2023,31250
for a sustainable relationship with the local environment (minerals, fauna, flora) as a
provider of local materials and contributes to the sustainability of the local population [
63
].
Digital dimensions attached to artifacts can provide information on the sociohistorical
context of their creation but also practical information such as instructions for their repair
and certificates of materials and composition indicating whether they comply with the
sustainable use of the environment. The regional promotion of local crafts enhances
local cultural tourism and also alleviates the burden of locations suffering from over-
tourism [
64
,
65
]. Policymakers and governmental bodies are equipped with sustainable
green growth practical tools and regional product and material promotion, and they
can increase the regional reputation and reinforce tourism, while also creating new jobs
stemming from material savings and new professions to accommodate the increased
possibilities that digital aids offer.
4.5. Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic
The recent pandemic, but also climate-related (floods, wildfires) or economic (war in
Ukraine, heightened energy and travel costs) changes have altered the cultural landscape
in Europe. Arts and crafts have proven their value as a form of decompression for the
European population during the lockdowns enforced during the pandemic [
66
]. The
creative economy in general was greatly affected across the world [
67
–
70
] and moved to
the dematerialization of creative businesses/services as the only available option for its
survival during the crisis [
71
]. The pandemic showed that CHIs and creative communities
are considering becoming more active online through podcasts, live content, and game
creation; e.g., 40% of the museums increased online visits when closed, and 41% increased
visits when they re-opened due to online engagement during the pandemic [
72
,
73
]. At
the same time, people involved in craft training and craft production have adapted their
strategies by intelligently applying ICT technologies to provide online tutoring [
74
] and
employing digital marketing to enhance the visibility and availability of their products
online [75].
4.6. Engaging CCIs in Crafts to Enhance the Economic Potential of Traditional Craft Products
Recent studies have illuminated the economic power of the CCIs. A 2006 European
Commission survey highlighted that, by 2003, these sectors were responsible for 2.6% of the
European GDP and employed approximately 5 million individuals [
6
]. Further emphasis
was given in the UN’s Creative Economy Report 2013 and the 2009 EC survey “Cultural
Influence on Creativity” [
76
,
77
]. By 2008, the creative economy had generated 8.5 million
jobs in EU countries, constituting 3.8% of the total labor force and contributing 4.5% to the
European GDP [
78
]. These compelling statistics have sparked discussions concerning the
cultural economy in Europe and the potential contradictions within EU policies [79,80].
The Council of Europe has acknowledged the crucial role of CCIs in realizing the Lis-
bon Strategy goals. The European Parliament, through Resolution 2002/2127 (INI) in 2002,
underscored the importance of CCIs in shaping cultural products and services [
81
]. UN-
ESCO and the European Culture Program have recognized culture as a driver of economic
development. In Europe, the year 2009 was designated as a special focus on creativity
and innovation. These developments signify a growing awareness of the transformative
potential of CCIs in shaping Europe’s economic and cultural landscape [82].
5. Protecting Intellectual Property in Crafts
Traditional craftsmanship, including its distinctive designs, reputation, and style, faces
the constant threat of imitation and misappropriation. While a dedicated framework to
safeguard traditional crafts is absent, there are ongoing efforts in the realm of intellectual
property (IP) protection. Initiatives like the World Intellectual Property Organization’s
(WIPO) Intergovernmental Committee on IP and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge,
and Folklore (IGC) [
83
] are actively working to bridge the gap between intellectual property
systems and the concerns of craft practitioners.
Encyclopedia 2023,31251
WIPO [
83
] outlines how existing IP rights (IPR) like trademarks, geographical indica-
tions, copyrights, industrial designs, and patents can serve as tools for practitioners and
craft organizations to advance their interests. These legal instruments can be leveraged to
shield traditional crafts from unauthorized replication and adaptation, as well as prevent
the deceptive use of their style and reputation. This underscores the evolving landscape of
legal protection for traditional crafts in the face of contemporary challenges.
According to [
84
], IP in crafts can have three distinct components: (a) reputation;
(b) appearance; and (c) know-how. Each one can be IP protected as presented in the
following sub-sections.
5.1. Reputation and Distinctiveness
There are many ways of building on reputation and distinctiveness. A trademark
serves as a recognizable sign used by a company to distinguish its goods or services from
others in the market [
85
,
86
]. It can be made up of various elements like words, symbols,
colors, and more. The main purpose is to indicate the source of origin and prevent confusion
with similar offerings from competitors. Registering a trademark provides legal exclusivity,
allowing the owner to prevent unauthorized usage of identical or similar marks. Currently,
several researchers have examined the issues of IPR protection through trademarks in
various national and international legislation contexts (e.g., [87–90]).
Collective marks and certification marks can be used by associations to identify prod-
ucts from their members (e.g., [
91
]). These marks distinguish goods or services within a
group and do not require individual certification. On the other hand, certification marks
ensure that products meet specific standards, such as geographical origin or quality. Both
types of marks aid indigenous communities in promoting their crafts, maintaining authen-
ticity, and supporting fair economic returns.
Geographical indications (GIs) can be used on products that possess qualities or
characteristics essentially linked to a specific geographic area. These GIs are significant
for products resulting from traditional practices and knowledge passed down through
generations [
92
]. They safeguard the reputation of products, prevent misleading practices,
and contribute to maintaining niche markets associated with certain regions. In the EU,
legal protection of geographic indications for agricultural products and foodstuffs was
established in 1992 [
93
]. In 2022, the Commission adopted a proposal to offer protection to
products such as Murano glass, Donegal tweed, Limoges porcelain, Solingen cutlery, and
Boleslawiec pottery [
94
] to enable producers to protect craft and industrial products and
their traditional know-how.
Unfair competition laws are designed to prevent dishonest practices in the market.
These laws can be utilized to combat false claims regarding authenticity, origin, or other
misleading information. For instance, they can address situations where products falsely
claim to be indigenous or authentic, allowing legitimate producers to take action against
such misleading practices and protect their genuine offerings’ reputation.
5.2. Appearance
Copyright law safeguards creative works, providing automatic protection upon cre-
ation [
95
]. Copyright owners have exclusive economic rights, benefiting financially for
a fixed period, often the author’s life plus 50 years. These rights prevent unauthorized
reproduction and adaptation. Additionally, moral rights encompass authorship claims and
protection against modifications that harm reputation. Crafts like enamel works, jewelry,
sculptures, and more can be protected if original and artistically valuable (e.g., [96,97]).
Design protection pertains to the aesthetic appearance of a product, including shapes,
patterns, and colors. Registration is required in many countries, with criteria like novelty,
originality, and individual character. Protection typically spans around 25 years. Design
owners can prevent similar product production, sales, or distribution. Designs purely
driven by technical aspects might not be protected. Some countries may exclude crafts
from design protection, focusing on industrially produced items.
Encyclopedia 2023,31252
5.3. Know-How
Patents safeguard novel inventions with inventive steps that can be industrially ap-
plied. The patent holder gains the right to prevent commercial use of the invention for a set
duration, often around 20 years (e.g., [
98
–
101
]). Patents indirectly protect crafts by covering
tools or processes involved in their creation. New functional elements such as tools and
machinery can be patented.
Trade secrets comprise confidential information offering a competitive advantage.
They can relate to product composition, manufacturing methods, or specialized know-
how [
102
,
103
]. Keeping this information hidden maintains its value and prevents com-
petitors from using it. To qualify, the information must be confidential, valuable due to
its secrecy, and steps must be taken to maintain its confidentiality. Unlike patents, trade
secrets are automatically protected as long as they remain confidential. Practitioners with
trade secrets can prevent unauthorized acquisition, disclosure, or use of the information.
5.4. European Legislation and Regulatory Efforts
•
Regulation 1151/2012 on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs
provides a clear framework for the protection of designation of origin and geographical
indication. Mingei serves this goal through digital certificates of craft products [104].
•
Regulation 1007/2011 on textile fiber names and the marketing of the fiber composition
of textile products [105].
•
Directive 2001/29/EC harmonizes certain aspects of copyright and related rights in
the information society, which could have implications for protecting original designs
and artistic works associated with handicrafts [106].
•
European Heritage Label is an initiative that aims to highlight sites that have played a
significant role in European history, culture, and integration. It could potentially cover
certain handicraft traditions and techniques [107].
•
Consumer Rights Directive (2011/83/EU) outlines consumers’ rights in the EU, in-
cluding information requirements for distance selling, which could apply to the sale
of handicrafts online [108].
•
European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) support regional development,
including initiatives that could benefit small businesses and artisans involved in
handicrafts [109].
•
The COSME Program is an EU program that supports the competitiveness of small
and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and could provide resources for artisanal busi-
nesses [110].
•
Circular Economy Action Plan: the EU’s focus on promoting a circular economy could
impact the materials and practices used in handicrafts, encouraging sustainable and
eco-friendly approaches [111].
•
General Product Safety Directive (2001/95/EC) establishes the general safety require-
ments for consumer products in the EU, including handicrafts [112].
•
Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 establishes a framework for the protection of geograph-
ical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs,
which could extend to certain traditional handicraft products [104].
•
Customs Union: the EU’s customs union and trade agreements could impact the
import and export of handicrafts and related materials [113].
•
Regulation 1907/2006 on the protection of human health and the environment regards
chemicals that, “besides industry, are applied to chemicals in our day-to-day lives, for
example in paints, clothes, and furniture” [114].
•
VAT regulations: depending on the country and type of product, different VAT rates
might apply to handicrafts [115].
6. Preserving Craft Practice
The most significant threat to the sustainability of crafts stems from the decreasing
number of practitioners and apprentices [
116
]. This underscores the importance of support-
Encyclopedia 2023,31253
ing craft education, generating interest, and offering business incentives to facilitate the
intergenerational and enduring acquisition of craft skills. Motion-driven representation and
semantic knowledge representation serve as the foundation for educational applications,
which can be used for tourism, community engagement, and museum education.
6.1. Current State of the Art
In the EU, Mingei was the most recent project that supported craft education through
digital tools and provided motivation to businesses to support the intergenerational and
sustainable learning of crafts (e.g., [
117
]). Craft training at different initiation levels is
important for two reasons: (a) craft training and apprenticeship are parts of the craft
representation to be presented, and (b) the ability to teach a craft enables its preservation
and authenticity. In Mingei, the teaching process provided a basis for authoring instructions
and training experiences.
Online training was provided by the Mingei Online Platform, and interactive applica-
tions were facilitated to present the practice and transmission of crafts through generations
including digital assets, illustrated instructions, and motion summarizations. Training in
the craft workshop was supported by VR applications and MR surfaces that introduced a
craft through hands-on exercises. Hands-on tasks teach by demonstrating essential craft
gestures, dexterities, and the use of tools. This way, a first-person, participatory, and
engaging educational experience was provided. Instructions and motion drove narratives
to support the demonstration.
Educational applications on crafts contribute to craft education [
118
], and in Mingei, a
preliminary approach included well-documented, introductory craft training experiences
to enhance craft understanding by introducing basic craft concepts to potential apprentices.
Mingei further explored contributions that counter the lack of instructors, the geographical
remoteness of apprentices, and lack of training sites. Mingei also studied how such
applications could counter student demotivation, stemming from a lack of certification.
Mingei has improved the quality and learning value of traditional craft techniques
through novel methodologies for the representation and simulation of craft techniques and
a systematic technical and theoretical framework for applying the outcomes to the European
sector of occupational training. The adopted approach integrated training organization
in the project and piloted outcomes in the context of training programs, ensuring that the
results can be directly applied at a European-wide level and can be integrated with minimal
effort. At the same time professionals, communities, maker spaces, and fab labs were
provided with all the necessary tools both online and onsite to facilitate their involvement
and enhance their status and reputation worldwide.
6.2. New Research Directions in Europe
Currently, in Europe, a new roadmap for safeguarding traditional crafts is pro-
posed [119] stemming from the Horizon Europe project “Craeft” [120].
The implementation of this roadmap is expected to advance the current state of the
art a step forward toward a deeper understanding of crafts. To this end, the purpose of
this roadmap is threefold. Firstly, it outlines goals and activities that hold promise for
contributing to craft preservation. Secondly, it aids policy-making and decision processes,
contributing to product authentication and material traceability. Thirdly, it serves as a
reference for craft preservation.
Through the implementation of this roadmap, Craeft aims to deal with the complexity
of understanding the creative processes involving “care, judgment, and dexterity” [
121
].
These processes demand interdisciplinary input from anthropology, cognitive science, art
history, physical sciences, and computational sciences. They are needed to fully encompass
the multifaceted nature of crafts, which are not only a living heritage but also a source of
income and a manifestation of the mind through “imagery, technology, and accumulated
knowledge” [122].
Encyclopedia 2023,31254
Craeft has set up challenging goals due to the diverse dimensions that crafts en-
compass. The proposed roadmap offers directions toward documenting and sustainably
preserving crafting techniques. Craeft, in this context, refers to the art of creating objects
using manual skills and tools. Crafted items are typically produced in limited quantities,
highlighting the uniqueness of each creation. Pye [
121
] distinguished between the “work
of certainty”, where actions are predetermined, and the “work of risk,” involving actions
dependent on the practitioner’s care, judgment, and dexterity.
The roadmap proposes the integration of computer-aided craft education and train-
ing to improve accessibility, streamline the learning process, enhance practicability, and
eliminate geographical limitations in craft education. This strategic plan aims to expedite
craft education and training by employing immersive aids, craft simulators, advanced
digitization, and visualization techniques. These tools are envisioned to broaden access,
optimize learning outcomes, facilitate hands-on practice, promote safety awareness, and
overcome geographical obstacles in craft education. Immersive interfaces play a pivotal
role in providing virtual craft experiences, given the hands-on nature of craftsmanship.
The integration of haptic feedback into these interfaces is essential for training in craft
techniques and conveying the tacit knowledge inherent in craftsmanship.
To support material efficiency, part reusability, and energy conservation, simulating
craft workflows is proposed. The simulation aims to predict the outcomes of novel tech-
niques for specific tasks and operations. Safety is paramount for training adult craftspeople,
and even more so for younger individuals. Presently, workshops are off-limits for children.
However, skill development is often more effective at a young age, traditionally acquired
through early apprenticeships. Therefore, the roadmap emphasizes the importance of
introducing realistic craft-based games and toys that can captivate children’s interest and
provide safe learning experiences from a young age. Additionally, the strategic plan rec-
ognizes the social benefits stemming from the role of art and culture in our lives. Craft
activities are increasingly acknowledged for their positive impact on individual and com-
munity well-being, whether pursued as a profession, a leisure pursuit, or a means of social
engagement [123].
7. Conclusions and Recommendations
In the ever-evolving landscape of modernity, the preservation of traditional crafts in
Europe stands as both a tribute to the past and a commitment to the future. These crafts,
woven deeply into the cultural tapestry of our societies, encapsulate the essence of heritage,
skill, and identity. As the fast-paced currents of technological advancement are navigated,
there is an imperative to safeguard these crafts, ensuring they continue to thrive, inspire,
and connect generations. Of course, this cannot be achieved without country members and
the EU as a whole being actively engaged in the challenge of safeguarding. To this end, this
work concludes by considering three directions.
The first concerns recommendations at a policy level that should implemented by the
EU to support safeguarding and are the output of a systematic study on heritage crafts by
the Mingei Horizon 2020 project. For the formulation of the recommendations, European
and global recommendations on the preservation of crafts and intangible cultural heritage
in general have been studied in various sources including UNESCO and the European
Commission through the prism of the multidisciplinary expertise brought by Mingei. Three
iterations of reporting of these recommendations were made in the form of three policy
briefs created by the project. The consolidated recommendations of the final version are
summarized as part of this research work.
The second direction summarizes future research directions in the domain involved in
this research work and is aligned with the presentation of the subjects in the
previous sections
.
The third direction calls for a roadmap conceived as an interdisciplinary synergy
between artisans, researchers, policymakers, and communities.
Encyclopedia 2023,31255
7.1. Policy Recommendations
This entry concludes with policy recommendations that are judged suitable for driving
interventions in Europe:
Recommendation 1: Strengthen the European crafts sector by encouraging collective
business models, networks, and partnerships to move from small-scale to wider and
more sustainable schemas. Furthermore, support micro-businesses that are currently the
driving force of craft preservation in European society, and whose long-term viability is not
guaranteed, and bind crafts with the rural space and thematic tourism. Build sustainable
relationships and networks between stakeholders to promote the creation of communities
of craft, cultural, and industry stakeholders. Safeguard craftswomen who face various
responsibilities in the home and working environment, ensuring that their craft heritage is
preserved and transmitted to the next generations.
Recommendation 2: Encourage the transmission, recognition, and accreditation of
craft knowledge and skills by linking informal educational organizations and the formal
education sector. In Europe, there is an urgent need to connect informal learning on
crafts happening in a craft workshop with a craft master and craft apprentices with formal
learning and certification. Additionally, empower craft education, training, and certification
by implementing appropriate accreditation systems for craft skills acquired through both
informal and formal learning. As a side measure, empower festivals as bearers of tradition,
crafts, and intangible cultural heritage that bring together performances, crafts, food, and
local products.
Recommendation 3: Adopt cutting-edge technologies in craft practice, training, and
education guided by the INNOCRAFT study [
124
] by combining (a) traditional know-how
with new technologies:
•
Education and training curricula that reflect on the tradition and foster intellectual
and technical innovation, increase the value of education and training programs ap-
propriating technical aids per craft requirements, reduce training and experimentation
costs, reduce the distance between instructors and students, acknowledge training,
and document personal skills and contributions to the state of the craft;
•
Education, training, and tutoring services that represent through re-enactments tradi-
tional techniques, tacit knowledge employed, and skill development, using immersive
media and telepresence, educational environments and simulators;
•
Development of design skills for new products based on traditional techniques,
reusable inventories of designs and techniques in contemporary products, craft-related
physical toys, and digital games;
•
Fabrication aids for digital design technique development and manufacturing of
physical aids and tools dedicated to specific designs and techniques together with
design inventories and style adaptation tools to respond to changing trends and
multiple audiences.
(b) building platforms and methodologies, curricula, entrepreneurship skills, and
vocational training to support the following:
•
Re-enactable craft representations, digitally enhanced education and training aids,
and appropriation of these aids in craft-training curricula;
•
New “hybrid craft” products that integrate design and craft skills, but also con-
temporary commodities to respond to needs for personalized items and the living
environment;
•
Entrepreneurship skills relevant to product promotion, reputation building, design,
valorization, clientele expansion, and revival of small businesses through cultural
awareness, online presence, and realistic product presentation;
•
Capacity enhancement and upskilling for digital design and fabrication skills, online
presentation, and promotion;
•
SME growth by stimulating policy learning and building capacity to improve the
implementation of regional development policies and programs.
Encyclopedia 2023,31256
And (c) revive and valorize traditional techniques in new products:
•
Recovery of lost techniques economized by simulation, eliminating implausible work-
flows, and then testing them in the workshop;
•
Digital design for crafts and fabrication capacities economizing production and widen-
ing expression possibilities;
•
Digital dimensions for added value on craft products, through online content and
certificates;
•
Valorize the content of traditional crafting in games and toys, which simplify dexterity
challenges and provide introductory creative experiences. Craft engagement for all, as
a means of expression, wellness, development, and recreation, economized by utilizing
cutting-edge, haptic-enabled immersivity, and enabling the participation of elders and
remote students.
7.2. Future Research Directions
In the context of safeguarding traditional crafts, future research endeavors should
focus on supporting a deeper understanding of crafts by dealing with the complexity of
the creative processes. It is considered of extreme importance to support the aforemen-
tioned policy recommendations by requiring interdisciplinary research efforts through
the following:
•
Anthropology, to provide a systematic ethnographic decomposition of craft practices
and art history to understand the social and historical context of their practice;
•
Cognitive science, to comprehend and model cognitive processes and perceptual
stimuli in craft processes;
•
Physical sciences, to support comprehension through accurate simulation of craft
processes in a wide range of tools, materials, and process execution parameters;
•
Computational sciences, to support AI-based generative simulations of craft processes
in different contexts and to predict the outcomes of novel techniques for specific tasks
and operations;
•
Human–computer interaction, to support realistic training of craft practice through
immersive technologies integrating haptic actuation and feedback.
7.3. Concluding Remarks
The journey to safeguard traditional crafts is a multidimensional endeavor, requiring
collaboration across disciplines, sectors, borders, and a strong political commitment to the
cause. It is a bridge between the legacy of time-honored techniques and the innovation of
contemporary tools. This preservation effort encompasses not only the tangible artifacts
and techniques but also the intangible threads of stories, values, and community bonds. As
this path is navigated, a roadmap emerges. It is a roadmap paved with interdisciplinary
synergy, where the expertise of artisans, researchers, policymakers, and communities
intertwine. It is a roadmap illuminated by technological advances, offering immersive
experiences, digitization, and simulation to carry ancient wisdom into the digital age. It is a
roadmap that respects the rhythms of tradition while embracing the dynamism of change.
In preserving traditional crafts, we are not just conserving artifacts; we are nurturing
a living legacy that bridges generations and enhances cultural diversity. The challenges
are manifold, from the need for recognition and support to the revival of interest among
the younger generation. Yet, in the face of these challenges, the collective commitment to
safeguarding these crafts shines brightly.
Ultimately, the endeavor to safeguard traditional crafts in Europe transcends time and
borders. It is an investment in the preservation of our shared history, an ode to the artisans
who have shaped our culture, and an investment in the generations who will carry these
crafts into the future. Through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication, the
flame of traditional crafts can continue to illuminate our path, reminding us of the beauty
and resilience of our cultural heritage.
Encyclopedia 2023,31257
Author Contributions:
Conceptualization, N.P. and X.Z.; methodology, N.P. and X.Z.; validation,
N.P. and X.Z.; formal analysis, N.P. and X.Z.; investigation, N.P. and X.Z.; resources, N.P. and
X.Z.;
writing—original
draft preparation, N.P. and X.Z.; writing—review and editing, N.P. and
X.Z; visualization, N.P. and X.Z.; supervision, N.P. and X.Z.; project administration, N.P. and X.Z.;
funding acquisition, N.P. and X.Z.; All authors have read and agreed to the published version of
the manuscript.
Funding:
This work was implemented under the project Craeft, which received funding from
the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation program under grant agreement
No. 101094349.
Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable.
Informed Consent Statement: Not applicable.
Data Availability Statement: Not applicable.
Acknowledgments:
The authors would like to thank the anonymous reviewers for contributing to
the enhancement of the quality of this manuscript.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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