During their own experiments, each partner encountered a shared set of fundamental questions: What is craftsmanship? What is the role of technology in craftsmanship? What does it take to support craftspeople in exchanging knowledge, thoughts and concerns in a way that is safe and productive?

This experiment created the conditions to address these questions collectively and in-depth. A group of six craftspeople participated in a series of co-creative sessions within a safe setting, while the methodology itself was tested and refined throughout the process. Each pilot partner invited two craftspeople to Geneva, where Onl’fait hosted the group at API (the Association for the Patrimony of Industry). Participants included bookbinder Tessa Wyman from @lerelieuses, stone sculptor Vincent Dubois from @vdb_sculptures and @atelier_calas, indigo dyers Celia Geraerdts and Akifumi Takeshita, and basketmakers Ann Vrancken from De Ullewanne and Jeanny Bouwen from De Ratelaar.

The experiment began prior to the group’s arrival in Geneva. All three partners conducted individual conversations with their respective craftspeople to explore what they felt comfortable sharing, how they were engaged in the transmission of craft, and which elements of their practice they considered intellectual property. These conversations provided essential context to familiarize the participants with the collective discussions.

In Geneva, the first day focused on participants getting to know one another. On day two, the focus shifted into engaging in co-creative sessions around the domains of culture and knowledge, economic viability and technology. In between the exchanges, the group had the opportunity to visit the Chalet exhibition and the printing atelier in the API, Onl'fait and Hiflow to understand the local landscape of crafters and makers.

The partners are now engaged in analysing the data. The outcomes will result in a series of concrete tools designed to support both craftspeople and policymakers.

Curious about what we uncovered together? Soon we will share some first insights about the sessions - from how craft-related inspirational insights impacted our personal perspectives, to what worked in our co-creation methodology, all the way to common challenges and opportunities across European craftspeople.