Design development of local rattan products in trangsan village, Indonesia, based on Mingei craft

Trangsan Village, located in Sukoharjo Regency, Central Java, is recognized as the second largest rattan craft center in Indonesia. However, the current rattan product design process tends to follow external market demands and global trends. This shift has reduced the role of local rattan crafters as original creators. In reality, the originality rooted in local values and hereditary skills is essential for preserving cultural sustainability. The expression of cultural identity is a crucial aspect of the creative process, especially when viewed through the lens of the Mingei Craft approach. This approach seeks to strengthen the distinctive character of Trangsan’s rattan products while involving local artisans as active participants in the design process. The primary aim of this research is to develop rattan product designs based on the Mingei approach. This approach emphasizes local aesthetic values and encourages rattan crafters to play a central role in the creative process, rather than merely acting as executors of external ideas. The research methodology employed is Participatory Action Research (PAR), which involves direct participation of rattan crafters in every stage of design development. Design Thinking is also applied to ensure that the solutions are based on empathy, user needs, and local context. The findings of this study led to the creation of four unique rattan handicraft products, each developed by different crafters from Trangsan Village. These products were adapted to meet market demands while maintaining their original functional and aesthetic values. This research demonstrates how cultural identity and local craftsmanship can thrive in harmony with contemporary design practices.