Reviving Tradition Through Design: Exploring Telepuk Craft Woodblock Design

Abstract

The traditional textile craft in Malaysia has yielded a plethora of remarkable fabrics. Among the most exquisite Malay textiles is Telepuk Textile. However, the Telepuk craft has dwindled in popularity and demand over time. The laborious production process reliant on Telepuk woodblocks has impeded the development and revival of this craft. No woodcarvers currently produce Telepuk woodblocks as part of their repertoire. Artisans also grapple with the challenge of producing Telepuk cloth in substantial quantities and introducing innovative designs without new Telepuk woodblocks. This study delves into the design strategy to rejuvenate the declining Telepuk craft. Employing a mixed-method research approach, we collected primary data through semi-structured interviews with experts. We conducted a quantitative survey to evaluate proposed designs and analyse pertinent secondary data. In summary, this research yields three critical findings for revitalising the Telepuk craft: (i) Harnessing the intrinsic value of traditional crafts like Telepuk can heighten awareness among the younger generation. (ii) Collaboration between designers and artisans emerges as the linchpin of the craft's revitalisation strategy. (iii) Transforming the production process and introducing innovative designs for Telepuk woodblocks can expedite the development of Telepuk craft production using current technology. The forces of globalisation and escalating demand for mass-produced, homogeneous items have fuelled a yearning for more meaningful products, particularly those imbued with cultural significance. The revival of lost crafts, such as Telepuk textiles, aligns with sustainable design principles. This study contends that the resurrection of traditional crafts like Telepuk necessitates incorporating appropriate technology and pragmatic design to uphold cultural heritage, enhance production processes, and cater to contemporary demands. The new Telepuk woodblock designs have been rigorously tested and developed based on survey results. The resulting designs must strike a practical balance between contemporary technology and artisanal craftsmanship. The suggested revitalisation strategies can be adapted incrementally and selectively, contingent upon the capabilities of the artisans.