Many traditional designs and products can be seen to be out of step with modern society. While being marginalized from the contemporary market for this reason, they are highly regarded in terms of their historical and traditional values embedded in ways of life in the particular community over time and transmitted from generation to generation. This paper aims to explore cultural significance embodied in such designs and products and clarify its meaning and interpretation for people today who make and/or use them. This will help craft makers and designers better understand what to bear in mind while trying to revitalize them without losing its essential meaning and value. Employing an in-depth case study method, 11-day field research was undertaken to explore traditional designs and products in New Mexico, USA as a successful example of well-sustained and thriving art and craft culture acknowledged both locally and internationally. Based on key informant interviews and site visits, research findings are discussed mainly around three areas: traditional crafts, artisans and place. Based on the analysis of research findings, key success factors of traditional designs and products in Santa Fe are discussed, from which implications for important elements that consist of cultural significance attached to the products can be drawn.

Contents
 Abstract
 1. Introduction
 2. Cultural Significance
 3. In-Depth Case Study
 4. Discussion
 5. Conclusion
 References

• 정지연(경희대학교 시각디자인학과) | Jung Je Yon