Computer Technology in Craft
01 May 2004

The TACTiCS – Toward Applying Computer Technology in Craft - project explores and aims to support the application of computer driven technologies in relation to contemporary craft practice. The project exists to disseminate information and encourage debate and enquiry amongst practitioners new to computer driven technologies.  The first phase of the project has resulted in the production of a two CD package for makers.

The first interactive CD Rom traces the journeys of four practitioners using differing technologies and rationales to develop and sustain their practice. The case studies tell the stories of how the practitioners have investigated computer driven technologies, how they have made critical decisions regarding its application, and how they view its current and future roles in their practice. The case studies not only show ‘how’ technology has been applied, but perhaps more importantly they show ‘why’ the technologies have been applied.

The case study CD is highly visual and interactive employing animations of practitioners using computer software in their work, video clips showing the development and production of work, and interviews with the practitioners talking about their application of computer driven technologies.

Key themes explored investigate the use of computer driven technologies to enhance creativity, efficiency, and promotion / distribution through the web. 

The second CD Rom includes the manufacturers demonstration software that the case study practitioners use.

The CD package is free for craft practitioners and can be obtained from www.tactics.org.uk 
All subscribers for the CD  package are asked to answer a questionnaire as part of on-going research for Phase 2 of the project. Any information supplied is confidential to the project and will not be passed on to other parties.

The TACTICS team is based at Gray's School of Art and is jointly funded by The Robert Gordon University and The European Social Fund in partnership with Applied Arts Scotland and Scottish Enterprise, Grampian.
www.tactics.org.uk
or contact Libby Curtis / Caroline Harvie
Telephone no. 01224 263612 / 263630