Transformation and tensions in the Sri Lankan brassware industry: Lessons for craft industry clusters in the global South

Abstract

Craft industries in the global south make important contributions to local culture and economic development, yet their organisational dynamics and community development potential are understudied. Moreover, these industries are undergoing rapid change as creative producers adapt to economic liberalisation and globalisation. Focusing on this challenge, this research explores the changing dynamics and economic development potentials of an artistic brassware industry in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The research analyses how key features of the brassware industry including community-specific knowledge and skills, social networking, and identity creation that are tied to long-existing socio-cultural factors such as religion and the caste system are changing. As producers adapt or move away from traditional production techniques and values, the industry has undergone significant change and a resultant downturn. Although not representative of experiences in all global south countries, the findings from this case may contribute to a deeper understanding of craft industries in countries facing similar challenges. • Creative producers adapt to economic liberalisation and globalization. • Community-specific knowledge and skills, social networking, and identity creation. • Research into the specific skills and practices behind craft industries in global south countries is rare. • Niche craft market that combines both tradition and innovation by selectively targeting the growing tourism industry.