Crafting Identity Through Design: A Theoretical Framework on Female Artisans in the GCC

The proposed study investigates the impact of female artisans on craft and design practices to preserve cultural identity in the Arab GCC Region. The research addresses a critical gap in the literature, where the intersection of craft, design, and cultural preservation has seldom been explored through a gendered lens in the Gulf context. By examining the contributions of female artisans, this study aims to shed light on their role in safeguarding cultural heritage and identity. To guide this investigation, the study introduces four theoretical frameworks (TFs): Jean Baudrillard’s Theory of Function, Material Culture Theory, Actor-Network Theory (ANT), and Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT). These frameworks provide diverse perspectives, enabling a comprehensive exploration of the research question. Baudrillard’s theory analyzes how crafted objects evolve into cultural symbols. Material Culture Theory positions artifacts as carriers of cultural memory and societal significance. ANT examines the interactions between artisans, materials, and societal networks. CHAT contextualizes these activities within their broader historical and cultural systems. The proposed study employs a synthesized framework combining Baudrillard’s Theory of Function and Material Culture Theory. This approach explores how objects crafted by female artisans transcend functionality to become cultural symbols while examining how these artifacts represent cultural memory and social roles. By applying these TFs, the study delves into the transformation of craft practices, the societal positioning of female artisans, and their role in cultural preservation within the GCC region. In conclusion, this study contributes to the literature by offering a gendered analysis of craft and design in cultural preservation, highlighting the significance of female artisans in shaping and maintaining cultural identity. This work bridges gaps in the existing scholarship and underscores the relevance of theoretical frameworks in enriching the understanding of cultural heritage in the GCC.