On September 5th, the Makersguild on the first floor of the Waag building hosted a unique event as part of the European research project Tracks4Crafts, which explores the evolving role of crafts in the digital age. The event aimed to personify and define the Craftsperson 2.0 — an artisan who preserves traditional craftsmanship while integrating modern technologies.
Attendees, ranging from traditional craftspeople and textile designers to coders and tech enthusiasts, experienced firsthand how digital tools can enhance artisanal processes like textile printing. The evening began with a quick demonstration, followed by a collaborative workshop where participants hacked traditional mark-making tools—such as brushes, stamps, and markers—to adapt them for use with digitally-controlled machines like CNC machines. This hands-on exploration redefined the relationship between human creativity and the machine, allowing participants to experience how technology can coexist with and enrich the tactile, sensory aspects of craft.
Programme Highlights
About Tracks4Crafts
The Tracks4Crafts project addresses the urgent need to preserve and pass down traditional crafts knowledge (TCK) across Europe. Through experimental pilot projects, such as Hacking the Machines, the initiative tests innovative methods to safeguard intangible skills and knowledge, ensuring that crafts can thrive in modern contexts. Coordinated by the University of Antwerp, the project is part of a four-year collaboration funded by Horizon Europe and brings together 15 partners from 10 different countries.
The TextileLab’s pilot aims to explore how hacking traditional craft machines can create new opportunities for innovation in textile printing, blending natural colors and traditional processes with cutting-edge technology. This research seeks to establish new protocols that allow craftspeople to maintain their creative agency while collaborating with machines to push the boundaries of their craft.
Waag Open
Waag Open is a monthly public programme focused on today's themes. We organise workshops and present collaborations between scientists, designers, and artists. Once a month, Waag opens its doors to programmes that anyone and everyone can attend.
This event was a captivating exploration of how age-old traditions can harmonize with modern technologies, pointing toward an exciting future for crafts.
Stay tuned for more innovative programs from Waag as part of their Tracks4Crafts journey!