From Axis to Artifact: Materializing Yogyakarta’s Cultural Philosophy in Souvenirs

Souvenirs from UNESCO World Heritage Sites can effectively transmit cultural values and local identity when designed with modular, miniature-based approaches that incorporate educational elements. This study demonstrates how such designs, enhanced by technologies like QR codes, can accurately represent the Yogyakarta Cosmological Axis's cultural philosophy while addressing challenges posed by mass-produced souvenirs lacking depth. Through field observations, interviews with artisans and experts, and document analysis, researchers identified modular design as a flexible tool for preserving cultural narratives and preventing misrepresentation. The findings underscore the potential of narrative-based souvenirs to serve as both educational tools and agents of sustainable destination branding.

Rachmawati, I., Ardhanariswari, K. A., & Pratiwi, K. W. (2025). From Axis to Artifact: Materializing Yogyakarta’s Cultural Philosophy in Souvenirs. RSF Conference Series: Business, Management and Social Sciences, 5(2), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.31098/bmss.v5i2.935