稻草編織曾是台灣日常生活中隨處可見的手工藝，然而，隨著時代變遷，人們對其印象逐漸侷限於「老舊、粗糙與過時」，這項技藝正快速消逝，甚至逐漸被遺忘。我們希望藉由探索其傳統技術，以當代視角重新演繹，使其超越實用價值，成為藝術與文化的象徵，讓這項傳統技藝不僅存於歷史之中，更能走向未來。

我們選擇鞋履作為載體，因為雙腳每日貼近大地，感受生活的重量與溫度。鞋子承載著歲月的痕跡，隨著行走逐漸磨損，最終歸於塵土，宛如人生旅程的縮影。從青春的叛逆與熱血、愛情的起落與遺憾，到職場的期待與迷茫，甚至年邁後對親情的渴望與回憶，每一雙草鞋都象徵著人生的一段篇章。我們希望透過鞋履的變化，引發觀者的共鳴，讓他們回望自身的經歷，在這些故事中找到情感的連結。

透過異材質結合與現代設計，我們讓草編重新進入大眾視野，展現其獨特的美感與可能性。我們的目標不僅是製作一件藝術作品，而是改變人們對草編的刻板印象，讓更多人看見這項技藝的價值。我們希望透過藝術的形式，使草編超越傳統工藝的框架，成為循環經濟的創新媒介，並藉此引發更多討論與思考，讓台灣的稻草編織得以延續與傳承。

The Loom Lab

Straw weaving was once a common craft in Taiwan’s daily life. However, as time passed, people’s perception of it became confined to being “old-fashioned, rough, and outdated.” This traditional technique is rapidly disappearing and on the verge of being forgotten. Through the exploration of its heritage, we aim to reinterpret straw weaving from a contemporary perspective, transcending its practical function to become a symbol of art and culture—one that does not merely belong to history but can continue into the future.

We chose footwear as our medium because our feet connect with the earth every day, carrying the weight and warmth of life. Shoes bear the marks of time, wearing down as we walk, eventually returning to dust—just like the journey of life itself. From the rebellious energy of youth and the highs and lows of love to the expectations and uncertainties of one’s career, and finally, the longing for family in old age—each pair of straw-woven shoes represents a chapter of life. Through the transformation of these shoes, we hope to evoke emotions and reflections, allowing viewers to revisit their own experiences and find resonance in these narratives.

By integrating diverse materials and modern design, we reintroduce straw weaving to the public eye, showcasing its unique aesthetics and possibilities. Our goal is not merely to create an artwork but to challenge the stereotypes associated with this craft and reveal its true beauty and value. We aspire to push the boundaries of traditional weaving, positioning it as an innovative medium for circular economy solutions. Through this artistic approach, we hope to spark discussions, inspire new perspectives, and ensure that Taiwan’s straw weaving tradition continues to thrive and be passed on to future generations.