The Department of Creative Design at National Yunlin University of Science and Technology (YunTech) hosted the International Workshop as part of the 2026 International Design Conference on Integrated Interdisciplinary Innovation on March 13, 2026. The event attracted designers, craft practitioners, and design enthusiasts from Taiwan and abroad, coming together to explore the innovative potential of handcrafted design in relation to culture and sustainability. Through hands-on practice and interactive exchange, participants from diverse backgrounds experienced the integration of design and craftsmanship, highlighting YunTech’s growing influence in international academic engagement and design innovation.

Where Design Meets Craft: Integrating Culture and Sustainability

The workshop brought together professionals and students from Pakistan, Vietnam, Mexico, Indonesia, Malaysia, Iran, and India, who participated in two themed hands-on sessions emphasizing cultural heritage and sustainable design:

• Ting Kou Metalcraft × Sustainable Design International Workshop: Pewter Tag Pendant Making

• Plant Day × Sustainable Design International Workshop: Staghorn Fern Mounting

In the Pewter Tag Pendant Making workshop, participants explored the art of metalcraft by working with pure tin, valued for its malleability and warm luster. Each participant created a unique pendant by engraving meaningful words or textures, producing a handcrafted metal piece rich in personal expression.

In the Staghorn Fern Mounting workshop, participants were introduced to the staghorn fern—often referred to as a “green sculpture of the rainforest.” They learned proper techniques for material selection and mounting, attaching the plant onto wooden boards to create both a decorative object and a nurturing environment for the plant. This process offered a therapeutic and reflective experience, fostering a deeper connection with nature.

Through these immersive activities, participants engaged with diverse cultural perspectives in design, enhancing their understanding of international design exchange.

Design as a Bridge for Cultural Exchange and Innovation

More than a hands-on experience, the international workshop served as a platform for cultural dialogue and creative exploration. Guided by designers and craft practitioners, participants discovered the values embedded in different cultural contexts and explored the diverse possibilities of design. The workshop further demonstrated how handcrafted design can serve as a meaningful medium for international exchange and innovation.

Excellence in International Competitions and Interdisciplinary Design

YunTech faculty and students have consistently demonstrated outstanding performance in international skills and innovation competitions, earning multiple gold and silver awards. These achievements reflect the diverse strengths of the College of Design and underscore the vital role of higher education in shaping future societies.

The Department of Creative Design has also collaborated with Osaka Institute of Technology in previous workshops, integrating design thinking, artificial intelligence, and technology to address the needs of aging populations. These initiatives not only promote design innovation but also enhance students’ English proficiency and global perspectives, fostering both academic exchange and cultural integration.

The successful implementation of this international workshop further strengthened the intersection of design and craftsmanship while advancing cross-cultural exchange and global academic collaboration. Looking ahead, YunTech will continue to deepen its international partnerships and organize more interdisciplinary design initiatives, contributing to global design education and industry innovation.

Group photo: Ting Kou Metalcraft × Sustainable Design International Workshop – Pewter Tag Pendant Making

Participants crafting unique pewter tag pendants using specialized tools

Group photo: Plant Day × Sustainable Design International Workshop – Staghorn Fern Mounting

Instructor demonstrating proper material application and mounting techniques

Organizing Unit: Department of Creative Design
Department Chair: Professor Hsieh Hsiu-ching
Contact Person: Tseng Hsiang-ju
Contact Number: +886-5-534-2601 ext. 6402

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