The arts and crafts industry in Culasi, Antique, Philippines, is integral to local culture, tourism, and economic potential. This study examines the historical evolution and cultural significance of Culasi's crafts, aiming to assess their role in sustainable development. Rooted in the Componential Theory of Creativity, the research explores the creativity, skills, and motivation of artisans in Culasi. The study's conceptual framework highlights the interconnectedness of arts and crafts with cultural values and sustainability. Using a qualitative narrative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven experienced artisans. These artisans, including weavers and blacksmiths, were selected based on residency, experience, and willingness to participate. The findings reveal a diverse range of handicrafts in Culasi, categorized into woven items, blades, and farming tools. Craftsmanship significantly impacts artisans' income, supporting education and household needs, and is deeply rooted in familial traditions. Challenges identified include a lack of proposed programs to support the industry's growth and sustainability. However, artisans demonstrate sustainability efforts by independently sourcing materials through planting and capital generation. Passing down crafts to younger generations is deemed essential for continuity and sustainability. The study emphasizes the economic potential of Culasi's arts and crafts industry for tourism, local communities, and vocational education. It underscores the need for supportive programs to preserve cultural heritage and foster sustainable development. The findings contribute to understanding Culasi's unique arts and crafts scene, highlighting its importance for community livelihoods and cultural identity. Further research in this field could inspire initiatives to enhance the industry's sustainability and economic impact.
arts, crafts, Culasiños, development
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY 4.0) International License.