
OUR RESEARCH
In the complex landscape of Africa's cultural heritage, traditional crafts serve as vital storytellers, narrating tales of artistic mastery, historical continuity, and cultural identity. These crafts, from handwoven textiles to meticulously crafted artifacts, embody the essence of Africa's diverse traditions. However, this heritage now faces a significant challenge as modernisation threatens to overshadow it, with traditional crafts at risk of fading into obscurity. As we navigate the intersection of tradition and progress, it becomes essential to grasp the multi-dimensional importance of these crafts. They are not merely forms of artistic expression, but living legacies of centuries-old skills, linking communities through shared practices and helping to shape cultural identities. Yet, in the face of rapid societal changes and economic pressures, traditional crafts are increasingly vulnerable, standing on the edge of extinction. Through our research initiative, 54faces seeks to examine and document these challenges, highlighting the need for preservation and the sustainable integration of traditional crafts within contemporary contexts.
ETHICAL
CONSIDERATIONS
As part of our research initiative, 54faces has implemented ethical protocols to protect the rights and cultural sensitivities of the artisans and communities involved. We have ensured that informed consent is obtained from artisans for the documentation and digital preservation of their crafts. Throughout the research process, we prioritise transparency and collaboration, ensuring that the voices of the artisans are respected and that their cultural heritage is handled with care and integrity.