FROM TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP TO CONTEMPORARY CULTURAL AND CREATIVE PRODUCTS: SUSTAINABLE DESIGN STRATEGIES FOR SHANGHAI BAMBOO BASKETRY

Abstract

Shanghai Bamboo Basketry is an important component of traditional Jiangnan craftsmanship, embodying local material knowledge, traditional basketry techniques, and regional cultural memory. With the development of urbanisation, industrialisation, and changing lifestyles, traditional bamboo basketry products face challenges including the decline of their practical functions and market demand, the ageing of craft inheritors, and limited participation by younger generations. This study aims to explore sustainable design strategies for transforming Shanghai Bamboo Basketry from traditional craftsmanship into contemporary cultural and creative products. Guided by Cultural Ecology Theory and Sustainable Design Theory, the study employs literature review, field investigation, case analysis, semi-structured interviews, and consumer needs analysis to systematically examine the historical background, craftsmanship characteristics, material system, and contemporary development challenges of Shanghai Bamboo Basketry. The findings suggest that sustainable design strategies should be developed from the perspectives of cultural transmission, material utilisation, craftsmanship transformation, functional innovation, aesthetic expression, public participation, and market adaptation. While preserving traditional craft knowledge and cultural authenticity, Bamboo Basketry techniques should be transformed into home furnishings, cultural souvenirs, and lifestyle products that respond to contemporary needs. This study provides a systematic approach to the design and development of Shanghai Bamboo Basketry cultural and creative products and offers practical references for the living transmission, product innovation, and long-term sustainable development of traditional craftsmanship.

Keywords: Shanghai Bamboo Basketry, Traditional Craftsmanship, Cultural and Creative Products, Sustainable Design, Cultural Heritage