164: Digital Crafting: Parametric Design, Digital Clay Manufacturing, and Traditional Ceramic Craftsmanship

This paper presents a study that explored the intersection of parametric design, digital fabrication, and traditional Brazilian ceramic craftsmanship through culturally grounded, collaborative approaches. Adopting "digital vernacular" and "digital craftsmanship" concepts, the research merged tradition and innovation through a three-stage methodology: understanding parametric logic using Rhinoceros/ Grasshopper, clay behavior and ceramic 3D printing; engaging with Jequitinhonha Valley artisans through workshops; and creating parametric ceramic pieces informed by traditional knowledge. Results show that clay additive manufacturing can incorporate local materials and craft knowledge as design inputs, forming a "hybrid territory" between artisanal and digital practices. The workshops revealed potential for co-authorship through simplified parametric interfaces, allowing non-specialists to engage in digital creation. The study demonstrates that digital fabrication can serve as a tool for cultural valorization when used contextually, contributing to hybrid approaches that respect traditional practices while expanding creative possibilities through digital tools.