The conference “Crafts – in the Local, Regional, and International Dimensions”, held under the theme “Tradition, Innovation, and the Digital Transformation of Crafts”,
aims to create a space for interdisciplinary scientific reflection on the contemporary significance of crafts and the directions of their development
For centuries, crafts have constituted an essential element of economic and social structures,
fulfilling stabilizing and developmental functions across various political and economic systems.
As a field of activity grounded in enduring tradition and specialized competencies,
crafts play a key role in preserving cultural heritage and shaping human capital.
Today, this sector is undergoing intensive modernization processes,
encompassing both the implementation of technological innovations
and adaptation to the requirements of digital transformation.
The integration of traditional manufacturing methods with modern digital tools, automation,
and data‑driven solutions contributes to increased efficiency, competitiveness, and resilience of craft enterprises.
The significance of crafts extends beyond the economic sphere, encompassing educational,
social, sociological, cultural, and ethical dimensions. Craft entities,
employing tens of millions of workers worldwide, operate within an environment
of numerous organizations and institutions that support their development, represent
the interests of the sector, and participate in processes of professionalization and digitalization.
Considering these aspects and dimensions, we warmly invite you to share the results of your
research and insights by participating in the conference and preparing articles related to crafts, their traditions, contemporary innovations,
as well as the processes of digitalization and technological transformation within craft‑related organizations and institutions.
The conference covers issues related to crafts in, among others, the following perspectives:
- Social and cultural – tradition, heritage, local communities
- Economic and managerial – business models, innovation, digitalization
- Technological and engineering – new technologies, automation, Industry 4.0,
- Artistic and design – artistic craftsmanship, design, conservation
- Educational – vocational training, digital competencies,
- Legal and institutional – regulations, craft organizations, IP,
- International – cooperation, globalization, practice exchange.
1. Social Sciences
Sociology, political science and administration,
security studies
* Craft as an element of social structure and local communities
* Social capital and intergenerational relations in the craft environment
* The role of craftsmanship in public policies and regional development
* Craftsmanship and economic and occupational security
2. Economic and Management Sciences
Economics, finance, management, logistics
* Craft in the local, regional and global economy
* Business models in craftsmanship: tradition, innovation, digitalization
* Digital transformation of craft businesses
* Financing craft activities and support instruments
* Craft in supply chains and cooperative networks
3. Technical and Engineering Sciences
Production Engineering, Automation, Computer Science, Materials Technologies
* Modern technologies in craftsmanship: automation, robotics, AI
* Innovative materials and manufacturing techniques
* Digital design tools (CAD/CAM), 3D printing, prototyping
* Integration of traditional methods with Industry 4.0 technologies
4. Humanities
History, Cultural Studies, Ethnology, Philosophy, Linguistics
* Cultural heritage of crafts and its preservation
* Craft in the history of the economy and society
* Symbolism, language and terminology of craft professions
* Ethical aspects of craft work
5.Arts
Fine Arts, Design, Conservation of Cultural Heritage
* Artistic crafts and their contemporary forms
* Design and visualization in the context of traditional craftsmanship
* Conservation and restoration of craft objects
* Relationship between art and craftsmanship in the 21st century
6.Education Sciences
Pedagogy, Vocational Education, Andragogy
* Vocational and dual education in crafts
* Transmission of craft traditions and competencies
* New teaching methods in vocational and technical education
* Development of digital skills in craft professions
7.Law and Legal Sciences
Commercial Law, Labor Law, Intellectual Property Law
* Regulations governing craft activities
* Protection of designs, trademarks, and intellectual property in crafts
* Legal status of craftsmen and craft organizations
* Labor law in craft professions
8.Health Sciences and Medical Sciences
Ergonomics, Occupational Medicine, Work Psychology
* Ergonomics of Craft Workstations
* Health and Safety in Craft Professions
* Physical and Psychological Loads in Craftsmanship
* Craft Work as a Form of Vocational and Social Therapy
* Impact of Manual Work on Mental Health and Well-being of Craftsmen
* Craftsmanship in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (e.g., after injuries or long-term unemployment)
9.Communication and Media Sciences
Social Communication, Marketing, Digital Media
* Promotion of crafts in traditional and digital media
* Building a craft brand
* Social media as a tool for the development of crafts
10. International Perspectives
Global Studies, International Relations, Cross‑Border Cooperation
* Crafts in the context of globalization and European integration
* International networks of craft cooperation
* Exchange of best practices and technology transfer
