Australia | Futuring Craft Conference - call for presentation proposals

The Indian Ocean Craft Triennial, to be held in Australia in September 2021, has a call for submissions for the Futuring Craft conference - virtual and in-person proposals. Do you have something to contribute to discussions about the role of craft today and how it can make a better future for us all?

PLEASE NOTE: the submission deadline has been extended to 15 March 2021

"In consideration of requests received, the deadline for the submission of abstracts is extended to 15 March 2021. This new date will be applied to all tracks of submission to "Futuring Craft" conference.”⁠ (see Facebook page if this is not yet reflected on the main website info)

Cultural practitioners and producers, academic theorists, craftspeople, artists, designer-makers, curators, campaigners and activists – you are invited to submit your proposal or abstract for the IOTA21 Conference – Futuring Craft!

Across five overlapping key themes or topics, the ‘Futuring Craft’ conference will map contemporary crafts and define the scope of craft making in the Indian Ocean region. The dynamic exchange of knowledge and ideas will critically analyse and challenge notions that crafts are embedded in the past and address the concept of, ‘Craft … as elemental to a future economy and culture.’ (Fry, 2011, p.139)

The ‘Futuring Craft’ and IOTA21 ‘Curiosity and Rituals of the Everyday’ program discussions aim to inspire people to create a relevant, viable and better future through creative craft.

The conference will take place as part of the opening events of the first Indian Ocean Craft Triennial at Curtin University (Perth) and Fremantle Arts Centre in Western Australia.

Submissions of theoretical papers, practice-led case studies, as well as innovative presentations for inclusion in the ‘Futuring Craft’ conference program scheduled for 16-18 September 2021 are now open.

A diverse range of topics will be considered to reflect the diversity of approaches to craft making and consumption.

Proposals from the broad creative field are encouraged…

… including cultural practitioners and producers, academic theorists, craftspeople, artists, designer-makers, curators, campaigners and activists.

Submission formats can include media documentation of objects and makers, and be presented physically or via digitally.

Some of the important questions that presenters and groups will vigorously debate at the conference:

• What is the future of craft practice in the Indian Ocean Region?
• How does the evolution of the ‘handmade’ underpin micro and macro economies?
• What is the role of crafts, and makers play in socio-political, cultural and environmental healing?
• How can communities challenge the craft paradigm?
• Technology and the digital age, a game changer?

The ‘Futuring Craft’ conference accompanies the IOTA21 ‘Curiosity and Rituals of the Everyday’ exhibitions and public program.