“Made local, made to last” |

Name of the submitted project or idea (in English or both English and your language)

Basketweaving with willow
URL of a video introducing the work（under 5 minutes）

https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=UWa5W1LzhSU&list=PLslOtQrRWG3JI91V7h0ySklCuFkncIRxs&index=8
Detailed explanation of the submitted project or idea (in English or both English and your language)

Basket making and the craft of basket weaving with willow is one of the oldest crafts in the world. I believe that some sources even date back to prehistoric times, and even then, it was already a circular concept. Indeed, I see baskets as a perfect model of production and consumption, where we share, use, reuse, repair, refurbish, and recycle existing materials and products, composting and possibly using them as fuel to create more value for as long as possible. Throughout history, I have discovered more and more ways to make the most of the circular life cycle of woven baskets.
In the Western world today, this ancient craft is often only used for demonstrative purposes. Most baskets are imported from low-wage countries. However, in Belgium and the surrounding area, I am committed to preserving crafts and promoting high-quality local products. I would like to do my part in continuing to promote basket weaving. Specific to this craft is the handwork focused on the production and processing of materials. As an artisan, I am concerned daily with the quality and sustainability of craftsmanship. By using the right materials and caring for nature, I believe this results in ecological and circular products.
How does your work address the 3 P’s (for Planet, for People, for Profit) for Sustainability?

My approach to addressing the 3 P's (Planet, People, Profit) for sustainability involves a two-pronged strategy that encompasses both design and a circular business model.
In the design phase, I prioritize circularity by considering reuse from the outset. I take into account how the material can be used efficiently, whether different layers are needed, how components should be connected, and how to minimize waste. My focus goes beyond mere functionality; it extends to design, uniqueness, aesthetics, sustainability, circularity, and ecology. Usability and adaptability are also essential aspects I take into account during this phase.
The circular business model complements this by centering on the product itself and addressing various factors, including circular construction, material use, ecological impact, reuse, sustainability, craftsmanship, and more. By integrating these strategies, I strive to promote sustainability across the board, not only benefiting the environment but also ensuring that people can enjoy well-crafted, long-lasting products, all while maintaining a profitable business model.
Where (country, region, etc.) have you primarily carried out your project?

Belgium, Spain, France, Germany
What is the timeline your project has taken place over?

2002 - Present
Keywords

quality, sustainability, craftmanship
If you have a website for your submitted project or idea, please provide the URL

https://www.mandenvlechten.be/en/
If you have a social media account for your submitted project or idea, please provide the URL

https://www.instagram.com/belgianbaskets/
Special Prize Question 1: Is there a mechanism in place to inherit culture and industry as assets for people living in that area 100 or even 1000 years from now?

Ensuring the inheritance of our culture and industry as valuable assets for people living in our area, both a century and a millennium from now, is a paramount commitment. Various mechanisms are implemented to achieve this long-term preservation:
1. Teaching Courses and Workshops: Through initiatives like our "Learn how to make a basket" courses, individuals are provided the opportunity to acquire or enhance their basket weaving skills. Passing on this traditional craftsmanship ensures that it remains alive and relevant for future generations.
o https://www.mandenvlechten.be/en/services/courses/

2. Personal Coaching - "Living Human Treasures": Craftsmanship, regarded as intangible cultural heritage, resides in the knowledge and skills of individuals. To sustain this heritage, we offer personalized coaching sessions for individuals or small groups, where students can learn to weave baskets independently. These courses are conducted over a few months and are accompanied by practice assignments, making it a comprehensive and hands-on experience.
o https://www.mandenvlechten.be/en/services/courses/

3. Safeguarding Our Heritage: We actively participate in safeguarding our heritage, particularly in Flanders, by engaging with organizations and projects dedicated to preserving traditions like making giants from wicker or weaving baskets from willow. These practices are celebrated and valued for their significance to both present and future generations.
o https://immaterieelerfgoed.be/nl/erfgoederen/reuzen-maken-uit-vlechtwerk
o https://immaterieelerfgoed.be/nl/erfgoederen/manden-vlechten-uit-teen

4. New Generation of Museums: Modern museums have evolved to become dynamic social laboratories where connections between heritage and contemporary society are forged. They bridge the past, present, and future, fostering cross-pollination and fresh perspectives. Institutions like Bokrijk, Karrenmuseum, and Hof van Busleyden are exemplary in this regard.
o https://bokrijk.be/nl
o https://www.karrenmuseum.be/
o https://www.hofvanbusleyden.be/

5. New Ways of Documenting: We are actively documenting our cultural heritage using digital platforms, making our traditions and knowledge easily accessible to all. Websites like "Reuzen in Vlaanderen" and Wikipedia pages on "Processional giants" and "Basket weaving" provide a digital record of our heritage.
o https://www.reuzeninvlaanderen.be/
o https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Processional_giant
o https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basket_weaving
o https://www.mandenvlechten.be/en/
o https://vlaanderen-circulair.be/en/cases/detail/gcv-basket-weaving
o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11gr3L8AMnI&list=RDCMUC0iZQA6tBL6UwAxcYorMZTQ&start_radio=1&rv=11gr3L8AMnI&t=23
o https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=UWa5W1LzhSU&list=PLslOtQrRWG3JI91V7h0ySklCuFkncIRxs&index=8
o We-transfer link to the subtitled English versions :
https://we.tl/t-p42mBFH3Zt

Through these combined efforts, we aim to ensure that the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage and craftsmanship will continue to be passed down and celebrated for generations to come, fostering a deep connection between the past, present, and future.
Special Prize Question 2: What is the positive impact on biodiversity? Is the project creating a cycle not just from a human-centered perspective but for the entire ecosystem?

My sustainability ambition goes beyond just a human-centered perspective; it encompasses the entire ecosystem, creating a positive impact on biodiversity. This holistic approach considers various aspects to promote sustainability:
1. Thinking Circularly About Projects: To optimize the project's impact on biodiversity, we examine the entire lifecycle, starting with the materials used and their efficient disassembly. We prioritize minimal environmental impact and sustainability, factoring in considerations for maintenance, potential environmental impacts, safety, and quality. Financial implications are also considered, ensuring a comprehensive view that allows for informed choices and effective communication.
2. Circular Economy Principles: The core principle of circularity is to keep resources in circulation for as long as possible. The benefits extend beyond monetary gains to economic, ecological, and social advantages. Repair, reuse, renovation, and recycling are key strategies in achieving circularity, contributing to cultural diversity, health, well-being, and the creation of value beyond mere monetary measures. In a circular economy, the primary goal shifts from money to achieving social and environmental value.
3. Design and Execution of a Basket: Designing and crafting baskets with future reuse in mind involves considerations like material durability and evolving expectations, which encompass functionality, design, ergonomics, aesthetics, sustainability, and circularity. This evolving perspective leads to adjustments in design, materials, techniques, and more.
4. Multi-functionality and Adaptability: Creating inherently multi-functional baskets that cater to diverse user groups and activities without significant modifications is a powerful strategy. Thoughtful design, incorporating various weaving techniques, shapes, materials, and sizes, ensures adaptability to a broad range of uses.
5. Layered Weaving: To maximize the use of materials with different lifespans, layered weaving techniques are employed. These techniques separate materials, preserving components with longer lifespans, contributing to sustainability.
6. Connections: Employing accessible and reversible weaving connections is crucial to separate and reuse layers and components made from different materials without damage.
7. Materials: Prioritizing primary materials with low environmental impact, such as willow branches, enhances sustainability. Local sourcing further reduces the ecological footprint and creates social value.
8. Materials Passport: The materials passport is a valuable tool that provides comprehensive information about materials used, their qualities, environmental impact, and reuse possibilities. It facilitates the efficient use and reuse of the basket, reducing waste.
9. Waste Reduction: A proactive approach to handling "waste" materials, including repurposing excess materials for other applications or baskets, significantly reduces waste, increases material efficiency, and optimizes resource use. This approach aligns with the circular model's objective.
10. Circular Business Model: The business model for the basket focuses on its circular structure, material usage, environmental impact, reuse, sustainability, craftsmanship, and more, reinforcing the commitment to sustainability.
By addressing these aspects throughout the project's lifecycle and considering their impact on the entire ecosystem, we aim to create a positive and lasting effect on biodiversity, preserving our cultural heritage while promoting environmental sustainability.
Special Prize Question 3: Are you enabling new forms of collaboration with others? New forms of collaboration might include cross-industry cooperation, co-creation with consumers, or role transformations within the supply chain.

Indeed, we are actively fostering new forms of collaboration that extend beyond traditional boundaries, resulting in a more efficient and dynamic ecosystem. These collaborations embrace a spectrum of innovative partnerships:
1. Cross-Industry Cooperation: Our timeless reflection on basketry has paved the way for cross-industry collaboration, specifically with the ongoing innovators, their producers, installers, and consumers. The inspiration for designing new types and forms of baskets aligns with the current wave of innovations. The emphasis on customization and quality fuels these collaborations, unlocking fresh possibilities at the intersection of tradition and innovation.
2. Co-Creation with Consumers: The co-creation journey with consumers is integral to our approach. We recognize that involving consumers in the design and creation process empowers them to be part of the creative journey. This collaboration ensures that the end products meet the unique needs and desires of our diverse customer base.
3. Role Transformations Within the Supply Chain: We are actively reimagining roles within the supply chain. By focusing on craftsmanship and passion, we bring a new dimension to our collaborations with partners across various sectors. The "baskets," including the giants, serve as symbols of connection and cooperation in the social realm. They are created by artisans, designers, and creators who infuse them with life and character, ultimately transforming traditional roles into ones of shared creativity.
4. Partnerships with Events: Our event partnerships highlight the versatility of the giants. Thanks to the fact that we have optimized the concept, especially in the context of sustainability and transport, among other things, the giants can serve various purposes, such as increasing the appeal of parades and festivals. The giants become more than just artistic creations; they become 'eye-catching objects' and symbols of cultural significance. These collaborations enrich the event experience and bring communities together.
5. Collaboration in Education: Giants become not just symbols but also "suitable objects of study." They offer educational opportunities for students, communities, organizations, and individuals interested in the history and creation of these cultural icons. This collaboration fosters a deeper understanding of our cultural heritage and promotes learning and cultural preservation.
6. Museum Placement: Placing giants in museums further underscores the value of cultural heritage. They act as eye-catching attractions for tourists and interested parties, preserving our traditions for posterity. This collaboration with museums ensures that our cultural treasures are accessible to a global audience, enriching the cultural landscape.
7. Social Engagement: The creation of giants serves as a catalyst for social cohesion. In Belgium, where more than 2,400 giants exist, these figures unite people across various demographics, transcending differences in language, origin, and orientation. They serve as powerful symbols of what is "special," "loved," and "important" to society, fostering unity and celebrating diversity.
8. Collaboration with Other Artisans: Giants are a collaborative art form, where creators, designers, and artisans come together to shape the "soul" of the giant. This cooperation is at the core of bringing these cultural symbols to life and infusing them with character and meaning.
Throughout these diverse collaborations, the key theme remains the same: cooperation. By working together across industries, with consumers, within the supply chain, and in various sectors, we unlock new horizons and ensure that our traditions and innovations coexist harmoniously. The giants stand as a testament to the power of collaboration and the ability to connect people, traditions, and creativity across boundaries.