Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre Luang Prabang
The Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre in Luang Prabang, Laos is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about traditional Lao textiles and culture. Founded in 2000 by Veomanee Duangdala and Joanna Smith, this organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique textile traditions of Laos.
Location and History
The Living Craft Centre is located just outside of Luang Prabang, on the banks of the Mekong River. The beautiful campus includes a weaving center, natural dye garden, and a shop selling handmade textiles and crafts.
Ock Pop Tok means "East Meets West" in Lao, and the organization was founded with the goal of creating a space where traditional Lao textile techniques could be taught and shared with the world. Today, the Living Craft Centre is a hub of activity, with weavers, dyers, and artisans working together to create beautiful textiles using techniques that have been passed down for generations.
Textile Workshops
One of the highlights of the Living Craft Centre is the wide range of textile workshops that are offered to visitors. From half-day weaving classes to week-long natural dyeing intensives, there is something for everyone. These workshops are led by experienced Lao weavers and dyers, and provide a unique opportunity to learn about traditional techniques and create your own beautiful textiles.
Some of the workshops offered at the Living Craft Centre include:
- Hand weaving
- Natural dyeing
- Hmong batik
- Hmong embroidery
- Laos bamboo weaving
Shop
The Living Craft Centre shop is a treasure trove of handmade textiles and crafts. From scarves and shawls to cushion covers and table runners, there is something for everyone. All of the items sold in the shop are made by local artisans, and the proceeds go directly to supporting the organization's efforts to preserve and promote traditional Lao textile techniques.
Community Outreach
In addition to its workshops and shop, the Living Craft Centre is also involved in a range of community outreach programs. These programs are designed to support local weavers and artisans, and to promote sustainable development in the region. Some of the community outreach initiatives include:
- Providing weaving and dyeing training to women's groups in rural areas
- Hosting cultural events and exhibitions
- Supporting local schools and educational initiatives
- Partnering with other organizations to promote sustainable tourism in Laos
Conclusion
The Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre is a unique and inspiring organization that is dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Lao textile techniques. Whether you're interested in taking a weaving class, shopping for handmade textiles, or learning about sustainable development in Laos, the Living Craft Centre is a must-visit destination in Luang Prabang.