Over centuries, southeast Asia has nurtured its creative landscape through the diversity of its peoples, the movements of migration, colonization, and globalization. Today, the broad spectrum of cultural expressions is struggling to find its place in the modern world but if one scratches the surface, it is not difficult to dive back into an incredible sea of cultural diversity.

I have noticed over the years that this cultural wealth is often underappreciated by locals, including young designers. The majority of them are attracted by “new designs”, and the lack of documentation on intangible cultures means that they also lack exposure and awareness about the cultures nearest to them. In an age of sprouting condominiums and shopping malls, traditional knowledge is depicted with nostalgia, but is rarely presented as being creative or innovative. It is perceived as something requiring “modern improvements” even if artisan communities behind such practices have been living sustainably over centuries and have produced original designs, which hold tremendous value for the generations ahead.

Khmu people and the way ahead

a village as a crossroad

landscapes of the heart