The Role of Human Touch in the Form Exploration of Ong Cen Kuang’s Lighting Designs

Abstract

In the era of mass production, the role of human touch in contemporary design becomes increasingly significant, especially in affirming product exclusivity and authenticity. This article discusses the role of human touch in the manual craft techniques employed in the creation of Ong Cen Kuang's lighting products, specifically in the "Bungkus" (wrap) collection. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data was collected from exhibition catalogs, media articles, and direct observation in Ong Cen Kuang's studio and showcases. The "Bungkus" lighting products demonstrate that using crochet techniques with zipper materials creates unique forms that cannot be identically replicated. Moreover, the collaborative strategy between designers and artisans contributes to Ong Cen Kuang’s identity as a slow-made, rare, and non-repetitive brand—highlighting exclusivity within the experience economy. This study underscores the importance of human touch in production processes to establish design identity rooted in local values and sustainability practices. It aims to enrich the discourse on craft-based contemporary design and serve as a reference for developing value-added design strategies in the creative industry era.