Past Conference Information - Weaving: Cognition, Technology, Culture
Workshops: April 5-6, 2018 Fayerweather Hall Room 513, Columbia University
Conference: April 7-8, 2018 Faculty House, Columbia University
Available Resources:
- Conference Executive Summary
- Conference Report
- Original Conference Program (PDF)
- Original Conference Event Page
- Conference Videos
- Weaving Knowledge Website
- The Indian Loom, Climate Change, and Democracy: Introducing the Malkha Enterprise by Uzramma in Comparative Studies of South Asia, Africa and the Middle East
- Crafting Innovation, Weaving Sustainability: Theorizing Indian Handloom Weaving as Sociotechnology by Annapurna Mamidipudi in Comparative Studies of South Asia, Africa and the Middle East
The conference, demonstration, and workshop, Weaving: Cognition, Technology, Culture, held April 5-8, 2017 at Columbia University, raised questions about the economic, social, and cultural significance of weaving, but also broader issues about craft as cognition, cognitive change over time, innovation in craft and the role of “traditional” crafts in the modern era. It considered the preservation of craft practices and their cultures, as well as issues concerning individual autonomy, sustainability, and dignity in craft-making. The program brought together scholars from history, economics, sociology, anthropology, psychology and cognitive sciences, experts in textile and craft, textile entrepreneurs, artisans, and artists. Free and open to the public, the program consisted of two parts: a 2-day workshop in which expert weavers demonstrate weaving techniques with opportunities to learn at the looms; and a 2-day interdisciplinary conference, including lectures and discussion by speakers from the academic, art and commercial realm.