The Ndare collection is a collaboration between AlvinT and Handep that aims to reimagine the role of indigenous crafts and artisans today. In an era dominated by modern technology and overconsumption, we find ourselves increasingly disconnected from our natural surroundings and historical roots. The prevalence of mechanization over traditional crafts resulted in the production of objects devoid of intention—easily mass-produced and disposed of without consideration for the care that once went into their creation. Consequently, today’s objects lack meaningful attachment to their creators or places of origin, even for those who acquire them.

As a response, Ndare hopes to reposition traditions that are often considered the 'past' as a pathway to the 'future.' The collection is created in collaboration with Dayak Tewoyan artisans from Gunung Purei, Central Kalimantan, who possess generational knowledge of sustainable rattan weaving and harvesting. Beyond merely creating products, the collection innovates by addressing the profound challenges faced by indigenous artisans while integrating their deep-rooted ties to the land as means to answer our modern crisis of meaning.

Globally, traditional craftsmanship is declining due to the waning interest in continuing age-old traditions because of its uncertain economic feasibility. Many seek to escape for better opportunities in the city or extractive industries like palm oil plantations and mining. The problem lies in the intricate connection between these craftsmen, the land, and forests; thus, their decline threatens both cultural heritage and environmental preservation.

In response to the issue, we designed the collection to showcase alternative products to widen the economic opportunities for these artisans. During the development, collaborative sessions were held with the weavers to innovate and determine fair compensation—done to establish frameworks to empower indigenous women artisans in the modern design industry, preserve their cultural heritage, sustain their livelihoods, and safeguard their identity.

Each item in the collection is handcrafted using natural materials—rattan and solid wood—with minimal energy consumption. Drawing upon Dayak tradition's sustainable practices, the artisans carefully select rattan species and ages suited to the intended object, ensuring responsible resource utilization. Their extensive knowledge of the forest offers alternative natural dyeing materials for rattan, such as local leaves, rambutan skin and mud.

Our conversations with the indigenous Dayak people provided insights into rattan's ecological significance in forest conservation and local livelihoods. Of the 600 global rattan species, only about 50 are commercially traded, highlighting the untapped potential held within indigenous knowledge. Through the collection, we aim to shed light on the broader global rattan industry and advocate for the inclusion of indigenous knowledge in its future development.