Eco-woven shoes
Educational aid
In Cambodia, there are many "little peddlers", children who sell souvenirs on the street. They often go barefoot because they lack money for shoes or sandals. China is the world's second-largest producer of corn, much of which is exported to other countries in the region. This design concept involves the art of straw weaving, which is part of China's intangible cultural heritage. Simple Instructions on how to weave sandals from corn husks would be printed on the side of every export packing boxes for corn. Corn husks, because they are strong and durable, are very suitable for weaving into footwear, and have the additional health benefit of inhibiting foot odor.
The “Eco-Woven Shoes” project is based on a good understanding of the context of use, the advantages of using easily available materials and combining these two with a technique the designers derive from their own cultural heritage. The design is sustainable in two ways: the sandals are made from a sustainable yet moderately resistant material, and the children learn and practice a simple weaving technique so they can make another pair whenever they need to. Although the project is targeted at Cambodian children who sell souvenirs, it can translate to any scenario where poor children are in need of a pair of sandals.
WINNER STATEMENTWe are very excited to receive this award. Thanks to our supervisor, Associate Professor Zhang. We will continue to work hard to create more good design.
UNIVERSITY