92 ums in order to improve documentation of craftsmanship so that it may serve as a learning resource. A core issue is to question what are the most important features of the craftsman. Hence, it is necessary to involve master craftsmen in both the planning and the execution of the documentation. The tacit dimensions of craftsmanship are not easily articulated, so special interest is devoted to digital methods and interactive media that can target the multi-sensory and performative aspects of craftsmanship.
The project embraces traditional crafts in gardening, carpentry, masonry and painting. To recover a centuries-old knowhow Empowering the craftspersons in restoration
Crafts have to be practised – only then are they maintained and developed. The Craft Laboratory co-operates with heritage agencies and managers of historic buildings to involve craftspersons not only in the hands-on work but also for the purpose to interpret and analyse the crafted objects and constructions. The craftspersons can be the key players to achieve better results in restoration. They take most of the decisions and have the greatest impact on the final result. They spend the most time on site and are close to the source material. The Craft Laboratory’s role is to create arenas and advocate positions for craftspersons to affect restoration projects at an early stage. The Church of Sweden has, for instance, supported a project where master craftsmen have reviewed and specified quality on material and working procedures in restoration of historic church buildings. In this way the master craftsmen inform the clients on a general level how to procure good craftsmanship. The National Heritage
THE ART OF WORK Above, stained glass. Restoration and research work is carried out in the workshop of Nidaros Cathedral. Right, craftsmen repairing the original enclosure.
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