CELEBRATING MODERN CRAFT
In today's society we have become distant from handwork. Artisanship has faded; technology and convenience render handwork a thing of the past. We consume things produced by industrial processes, never touched by people, yet we crave the story and meaning in the handcrafted object which cannot be produced by machine.
At CraftedSystems, we celebrate modern craft: reinvigorating handcraft in the context of today's society. Instead of using highly skilled artisans, we partner with the YWCA women's shelter to create our products. We help in skills development for women in transition, economically enabling and empowering them, giving them collective purpose and creative outlet. They work in a collaborative environment, share learnings and pass on knowledge while participating in this "healing work".
We combine award-winning design with innovative weaving techniques + the simple idea of collective effort to create modern pieces for today's lifestyle and environment. Our first collection includes a selection of felt vessels, table pieces, lights, floor and wall systems.
OUR PRODUCT
Our products are uniquely woven from 100% natural wool felt and assembled by hand. By nature they are textured with varying degrees of dimension and lift to the surface. They exhibit both a simple, geometric modern appeal and also a warm, hand-crafted quality. If you are looking for a perfect and smooth product, these are probably not for you. If, however, you enjoy something made from pure materials with a simple & honest concept, we believe you will appreciate our products.
We use eco-friendly production processes such as waterjetcutting and diecutting. All products are produced and assembled in Portland, Oregon.
BIO, founder Aurelie Tu
Aurelie's passion for beautifully crafted and sustainable product was the natural precurser to starting CraftedSystems. Early appreciation for handcrafts from different cultures led to much independent travel to countries like Peru, Costa Rica, Mexico, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, Thailand, Vietnam, Bali, Japan, Korea, China, and Australia. During these travels, the desire to create products which blended old world hand technique in new and modern ways was born.
"I've always sought to work in harmony with indigenous cultures, creating modern product while benefitting local communities". Upon realizing the opportunity to both make products locally and help those right on our own doorstep, Aurelie created CraftedSystems as a creative and community-focussed company which benefits local manufacturers and the local women's community of Portland Oregon, where she currently resides with her husband and 3 year old daughter.
Aurelie's extensive background in industrial design creates the perfect backdrop to innovation, materials exploration and three-dimensional forms. Her love of constantly seeking new solutions and methodologies offers a rich and fertile canvas for CraftedSystems. Other design work by Aurelie Tu can be found on www.aurelietu.com.
Please check back often for new work on our website.
