Rethinking Co-Creation- Adaptive Approaches to Agency in the Vietnam Design Research Studio (VDRS) Pilot Study

This paper reflects on the pilot study of the Vietnam Design Research Studio in Hoa Tien, a traditional craft village, which sought to explore co-creation methodologies in the context of digital platform development. Initial ambitions to collaboratively design a digital tool with local artisans confronted significant challenges, revealing inherent disparities between academic and tacit knowledge systems. These challenges necessitated a shift from conventional co-design models to adaptive, enablement-focused approaches that prioritize local agency and contextual understanding. Through participatory action research and ethnographic methods, the pilot uncovered the complexities of embedding agency in creative processes. Artisans valued preservation of historical craft techniques over contemporary reinterpretations, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and cultural authenticity. This study highlights the need for ethical engagement frameworks that empower communities to document and share their knowledge, rather than imposing external narratives. The findings advocate for new understandings of agency in co-creation, grounded in adaptability, reflexivity, and respect for local contexts. The research further suggests that sustainable practices in design can emerge from such adaptive approaches, fostering global learning while preserving cultural heritage. The discussion situates the pilot within broader discourses on the performative and political dimensions of agency in creative processes, offering insights for art and design practitioners navigating the complexities of community-driven innovation.<p></p>