Traditional crafting is perhaps the most tangible manifestation of intangible cultural heritage. Traditional crafts are part of our shared cultural history and remind us of the importance of preserving our connection to the past while inspiring new generations of artisans and makers. Designs, patterns, and methods tell the unique stories of a region or indigenous group, defining who people are and where they come from. There are numerous expressions of traditional crafting; clothing and jewellery; costumes and traditional dress, storage containers and baskets; decorative art and ritual objects; musical instruments and household utensils; crocheted blankets and linens; made from passion for amusement, practical use and education.

 

Many of the women in the Heritage Journeys project are incredibly talented and also use their skills and entrepreneurial acumen to create businesses ventures as well as crafting to aid mental and emotional well-being and relaxation. In addition to preserving the craft objects, it is equally important to safeguard and encourage artisans to continue to produce crafts and to pass their skills and knowledge on to others, particularly within their own communities thus creating a rich cultural legacy for future generations.