Deep Localisation: A Future of International European Fashion Schools?

Scott, Kirsten and Murden, Mevin (2024) Deep Localisation: A Future of International European Fashion Schools? In: P/References of Design. Cumulus conference proceedings series, 1 . Cumulus Association, Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design Budapest, Budapest, pp. 59-77. ISBN 978-952-7549-03-5

Text f5cf783f-85f5-4f09-9e24-462199f6069b - Published Version Download (14MB)

Abstract

Western design cultures continue to propagate specific concepts of modernity, globally, at the expense of local, non-western and sustainable traditions which have been described as sacrifice zones in the expansion of the global fashion industry. In addition to the large number of international students that enrol in design schools in the UK and Europe each year, one of the enablers of this form of neocolonialism has been the international expansion of many Western design schools. Is there, now, a responsibility for these schools to help preserve and promote the cultural crafts and clothing systems that the global fashion industry has all but erased? Are there, in fact, some particular advantages that these schools might bring to supporting endangered traditions? This research offers a case study of ways that deeply-localised, design-led, project-based learning equips Indian students studying at an international fashion school in India with deeply-contextualised skills and knowledge. At the request of the artisan community of Kotpad, Odisha, mediated by project partner Creative Bee, Hyderabad, and guided by ongoing dialogue, the project aims to assist artisans in negotiating change by preserving knowledge of and promoting an at-risk textile tradition through a series of staged interventions, in the hope that this may defend their craft against macro and micro local and global challenges, including continuing forms of colonisation.

Actions (login required)

Edit Item