Intangible Heritage Research Articles

Mapping Intangible Cultural Heritage in an Urban Context: Case of Historic City of Nashik, India

Mapping Intangible Cultural Heritage in an Urban Context: Case of Historic City of Nashik, India

Sustainability of Oral History: A Case of SRK Pulo at Kampung Semarang

History is data regarding historical instances of human activity. This study anticipates the cultural memory around the primary school, SRK Pulo, which was relocated while retaining its previous name. One of the ancient Malay settlements along the Sarawak riverbank in Kuching is called Kampung Pulo. Questions are being asked about the SRK Pulo, its origin and other related histories to acknowledge. Further study, especially oral history inquiries, might help clear up any lingering questions regarding a historical truth or knowledge gap. For the benefit of future research, the cultural memory of intangible cultures needs to be preserved and documented through oral history research. To highlight historical local stories as the major focus in a qualitative manner, this study utilised Husserlism in Transcendental Phenomenology (TPh). The positive takeaways from oral history investigations into the genesis of SRK Pulo could serve as a guideline for the younger generation to respect and learn from the past to establish evocative living in the future. The sustainability of indigenous peoples in preserving their sociocultural ways of life and oral traditions depends on this study.

Uncovering the role of English language teaching coursebooks in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage / Explorando el rol de los libros de texto de inglés para salvaguardar el patrimonio cultural inmaterial

UNESCO and local organizations raise concern over the threats towards Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) and continue their efforts to get help from any field possible for introducing ICH elements and raising awareness. Education is one of those fields. Considering the relation between culture and English language teaching, ICH can be incorporated into English classrooms. Besides, being the primary source of input in a language classroom, ELT coursebooks can serve as a bearer of culture. In this regard, this paper discusses the role of English language teaching coursebooks in the safeguarding of ICH by revealing the representation of ICH elements in locally produced coursebooks from 16 different countries: Bulgaria, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Norway, Republic of Korea, Romania, Türkiye, Ukraine and Uzbekistan. Findings from the study supported the idea that ELT coursebooks can be utilized as a medium for safeguarding ICH while improving the learners’ language skills.

Food as Folklife: Public Folklore Practice in the Museum and Archive

This article examines folkloristic methods for collecting and presenting foodways in museum and archival settings. Drawing on the author’s experience as a public folklorist and exhibit curator, the article offers two case studies on foodways collection and presentation. The first case study explores the Smithsonian Center for Intangible Cultural Heritage’s annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C., in which the author presented in 2023. The second case study highlights the Kentucky Folklife Program of Western Kentucky University’s exhibit, “A Culture Carried: Bosnians in Bowling Green” (mounted at the Kentucky Museum 2017–2019). As the then-folklife specialist for the Kentucky Folklife Program, the author served as a co-curator for the exhibit and associated programming. Through these case studies, the article aims to provide concrete ideas and methods for documenting and presenting foodways for museum professionals and archivists.

Intangible Cultural Heritage Kangwei Paintings: Literature Review and Outlook

In recent years, many countries around the world have been implementing their own protective practices for intangible cultural heritage under the impetus of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention. This study will conduct an in-depth investigation into the intangible cultural heritage of Kangwei paintings in Yuanping City, Shanxi Province, China, exploring the process of cultural identity formation and the role of commercialization in the context of intangible cultural heritage revitalization, an area that has not been deeply researched before.Using the systematic literature review method, a review was conducted on 102 relevant documents and journal articles sourced from China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). Conduct a literature review from the perspectives of overall research characteristics, highly cited literature, theoretical foundations, and research methods.The results of the literature analysis are systematically elaborated from the aspects of the connotation and extension of Kangwei paintings, the practical mechanisms for the revitalization of Kangwei paintings as intangible cultural heritage, and related suggestions. The study found that the practical mechanisms for the revitalization of Kangwei paintings as intangible cultural heritage include institutional support mechanisms, theoretical consolidation mechanisms, collaborative mechanisms, social education mechanisms, application innovation mechanisms, and efficiency evaluation mechanisms, with no related research proposed.Therefore, based on the framework for the revitalization of Yuanping Kangwei paintings, the prospects of cultural identity and commercialization concepts are proposed: solidifying the theoretical foundation for the revitalization of Kangwei paintings as intangible cultural heritage, scientifically defining the connotations and extensions of Kangwei paintings, refining the cultural identity mechanism for the revitalization of Kangwei paintings as intangible cultural heritage, and enriching the theoretical foundation for the study of the commercialization of Kangwei paintings.

Study on the Protection and Transmission of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Dimen Village: An Analysis Based on Field Surveys and Ecomuseum Daily Records

This study explores the current state of protection and transmission of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in Dimen Village, Liping County, Guizhou Province. Through an analysis of field surveys and records from the Dimen ecomuseum, we found that although certain cultural heritage items receive high recognition from the government, their activity levels and transmission within the village do not directly correlate with this recognition. Cultural heritage projects closely related to daily life and easy to participate in, such as embroidery, traditional handmade paper, and the Dong Grand Song, are more thriving than those that receive national policy support or have commercial demand. This paper analyzes the seasonal characteristics, gender distribution, participation numbers, and implementation spaces of 13 intangible cultural heritage skills, providing new perspectives and suggestions for future cultural heritage protection and transmission strategies.

Exploring the spatiotemporal trends and influencing factors of human settlement suitability in Hunan province traditional villages

The conservation and sustainable development of traditional villages have raised global attention in the context of rapid urbanization and modernization. Taking 703 traditional villages in Hunan Province as an example, this study first constructed a Traditional Village Human Settlement Suitability (TVHSS) evaluation system based on the Pressure-State-Response (PSR) model. Then, the entropy weighting method was used to assess the spatiotemporal evolution of TVHSS from 2005 to 2020, while the Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) model was employed to analyze the influencing factors. The results indicate that the overall TVHSS score increased from 0.521 to 0.776 from 2005 to 2020, with a spatial distribution characterized by lower suitability in the northwest and higher suitability in the southeast. During this period, the pressure subsystem experienced an increase, peaking at 0.058 in 2015 before declining to 0.055 in 2020. Meanwhile, the state subsystem remained relatively stable, with scores slightly decreasing from 0.040 in 2005 to 0.033 in 2020. In contrast, the response subsystem showed a continuous upward trend, rising from 0.430 in 2005 to 0.688 in 2020. The distance to educational institutions, degree of relief, distance to water, and distance on intangible cultural heritage sites have the highest effects on TVHSS. These findings provide a scientific basis for the conservation and sustainable development of traditional villages and offer a replicable analytical framework for similar contexts globally. By addressing the complex interactions between environmental, social, and economic factors, this study contributes to the global discourse on rural sustainability, offering insights that can inform policy-making and guide the preservation of cultural heritage in the face of modernization pressures.

An empirical study of feature extraction for Hubei folk art of carved paper-cutting.

Excellent traditional culture is the root and soul of a nation, which is the carrier of historical precipitation and continuous development. In this aspect, Hubei folk art of carved paper-cutting has important cultural value and historical significance in the composition of Chinese traditional culture, which is a national intangible cultural heritage under key protection and urgently needs to be carried forward. This paper carried out an empirical study using the survey and comparative analysis methods on the feature extraction for Hubei folk art of carved paper-cutting. Through investigation and comparative analysis of vast artworks of Hubei carved paper-cutting, the classics are selected as the representative to extract the regional characteristics, the artistic values, and the composition and modelling methods. Results indicate that the common features exist on the artistic values in beautification of life and education, the composition principles of central-based, symmetry, balanced or conformal, and the modelling techniques using Yin and Yang carving, unobstructive perspective, distortion and exaggeration. However, the regional features in cultural expression, folklore communication, modelling skills are apparent and strong interlinked with the regional historical development in social activities, labor productivity and surrounding environment. This study provides a multi-dimensional perspective for the modern inheritance and development of traditional Hubei artworks of carved paper-cutting with specified characteristics.

An Analysis of the Spatiotemporal Distribution and Influencing Factors of National Intangible Cultural Heritage along the Grand Canal of China

Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) reflects a region’s history and culture, serving as a significant indicator of regional identity and cohesion. The Grand Canal Basin in China is rich in historical traditions, containing a rich array of ICH resources. Analyzing the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and influencing factors of ICH within the Grand Canal Basin of China can provide a scientific basis for developing cultural industries and promoting sustainable regional economic growth. This study employed GIS-based spatial analysis methods, including kernel density estimation, the mean nearest neighbor index, and standard deviation ellipse, to investigate the spatiotemporal distribution of 504 national-level ICH items (including extensions) in the Grand Canal Basin of China. The results demonstrate the significant spatial clustering of ICH, with concentrations in high-density regions, particularly at the northern and southern ends of the canal. There is significant regional disparity in the distribution of ICH, with an uneven quantity and structure, predominantly featuring traditional skills and traditional drama categories. The average centroid shift of ICH exhibits a north-to-south oscillatory trajectory. However, overall, it demonstrates a southward-moving trend. This study also underscores the impacts of urbanization, population density, economic development, and transportation infrastructure on ICH distribution. Among these factors, urbanization exerts the strongest influence on the spatial distribution of ICH. The impact of the natural environment is relatively minor; however, it remains a significant element that cannot be overlooked during development. This research offers valuable data and insights for local governments and institutions to formulate evidence-based strategies for the protection and sustainable utilization of ICH resources, promoting sustainable cultural and economic development in the Grand Canal Basin.

Art design interventions as a catalyst for sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement in intangible cultural heritage

This study explores the transformative role of art design interventions in the sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement of intangible cultural heritage, with a particular focus on honored brands. The research develops a framework that positions aesthetic and interactive art design interventions as pivotal components in revitalizing these brands. Aesthetic interventions translate the brand’s core philosophy, spirit, and values into compelling visual symbols, harmonizing cultural heritage with modern image design to elevate brand reputation and consumer preference. Interactive interventions enhance user experience, particularly among younger demographics, by integrating technological and entertainment-based engagement, thereby strengthening consumer loyalty and brand influence. The study further investigates how these art design interventions serve as catalysts for broader social development, contributing to the modern relevance and societal impact of time-honored brands. Additionally, it examines the impact of these interventions on sustainable development, societal support, and policy alignment. By weaving together these elements, the research underscores the critical importance of aligning brand strategies with societal goals, fostering environments where brands actively contribute to social welfare and sustainable growth. The findings offer valuable theoretical insights and practical strategies for the sustainable development of time-honored brands, providing clear directions for future research and practice.

The influence of the cultural capital transformation of Wushu Intangible Cultural Heritage on status acquisition: the case of Sichuan Province

ABSTRACT The promulgation and implementation of a protection system for Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) has provided a new legal path for transforming cultural capital and solidifying the modern values of Chinese folk martial arts. However, different folk martial arts have formed differentiated evaluations and social statuses by transmitting and reproducing cultural capital across generations. Through the field investigation of Sichuan Wushu Intangible Cultural Heritage (WICH) projects, this study discusses the relationship between the status and influence of WICH and the operation of cultural capital. The findings demonstrate that the WICH inheritance group continues to pass down and transform embodied cultural capital through the inheritance relationship network while constructing and expanding the project’s objective cultural capital. In doing so, they maintain and strengthen the project’s established reputation and social status. Therefore, cultural capital and the path of capital reproduction of folk martial arts formed in the traditional inheritance field affect the acquisition of WICH status. A comprehensive clarification of the positive role of cultural capital in the acquisition of WICH status can provide a reference for the modern transformation and continuation of the value system of WICH projects at different levels.

Harmonious Heritage through the Qualitative Analysis of Northeast Folk Songs in the Evolution of Northeast Drum

This study explores the artistic and cultural significance of the Northeast Drum (Jianban), a traditional Chinese folk art characterized by its unique blend of narrative storytelling, rhythmic musical accompaniment, and audience interaction. The research focuses on the contributions of Liu Guiying, a renowned provincial representative inheritor of the Northeast Drum, and her innovative techniques that have revitalized this art form. Through qualitative methods, including interviews and participant observations, the study examines the structure and themes of Northeast Drum performances, the role of improvisation, and the integration of Northeast folk songs. The findings highlight the dynamic nature of these performances and their cultural resonance within the community. The study also discusses the challenges and opportunities in preserving this intangible cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of educational programs, digital archiving, and cultural policies. Recommendations for future research include comparative studies, the impact of modern technology, audience dynamics, and longitudinal studies on preservation efforts. This research contributes to the understanding and sustainable development of the Northeast Drum, ensuring its relevance for future generations.

Manifestation and Management of Cultural Heritage: An Analysis of the Old Towns of Kenyan Coastal Region

The study examined the current manifestation of intangible and tangible cultural heritage of old towns of Lamu and Mombasa in the coastal region of Kenya, with a view of evaluating management efforts by heritage managers in the region. An exploratory research design with a mixed method approach was used to generate new ideas and assumptions regarding how cultural heritage is manifested. A sample size of 110 participants from both towns was selected through multistage cluster sampling, out of which 15 heritage managers, 40 community household leaders and 55 community elders were selected using purposive and snowball techniques. The study utilized semi structured interview guides, photography and observation as data collection methods. Descriptive analysis, content analysis-specifically attribution and designation analysis were used to analyze data. The study established that cultural heritage in the old towns is manifested through symbols, values and artefacts and architecture. Among the most evident manifestations in both old towns are in the form of wedding ceremonies, burial rituals, and limited cultural festivals especially during key religious practices Manifested architectural heritage undergoing shocks is restored for tourism purposes. However, intangible heritage is preserved, not for tourism purposes but as part of local’s way of life and as dictated by cultural values such as religion. Most organizations concerned with management of cultural heritage recognize its importance and have adapted reconstruction and restoration methods of tangible heritage especially old architecture. Among preferred recommendations were that tourism as the main economic activity in the region should be developed to benefit cultural heritage. The article advocates promoting resilience of heritage through gainful economic activities such as tourism to promote its posterity.

Intangible cultural heritage versus tourism: residents’ reactions to temporal overtourism during the Day of the Dead in Mixquic, Mexico

ABSTRACT Globalisation opens small communities and their traditions to temporal overtourism, causing adaptations in the local dynamics. This study investigates responses to overtourism during the Day of the Dead in Mixquic, a semi-rural community located in Mexico City. Employing rapid ethnography, semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and content analysis of social media, it delves into local perceptions and actions regarding temporary overtourism dynamics in a global patrimonialisation context. Results reveal a complex interplay between traditional practices, community resilience, and tourist dynamics. Despite challenges, residents show a positive attitude towards tourists, often incorporating them into ancient traditions while preserving cultural authenticity. Notably, symbolic representations of tradition persist amidst external pressures, showcasing the resilience of community identity. The study underscores the importance of embracing community-centric approaches – observing and considering the community – and innovative tourism strategies to mitigate negative impacts for a better preservation of cultural heritage. By prioritising resident values and needs, tourism can lead to practices that are beneficial to both communities and visitors. Furthermore, the research highlights the importance of observing and listening to local communities.

Rhythms of Tradition Explores the Rich Heritage of Folk Music and Dance in Western Odisha

This study explores the rich heritage of folk music and dance in Western Odisha, delving into its cultural, spiritual, and social significance. Western Odisha is home to folk traditions such as Ghumura, Danda, Leela, Dhap, Sankirtan, and Daskathia, all of which reflect the region's deep historical and religious roots. These performances are not merely artistic expressions but serve as vehicles for transmitting cultural knowledge, reinforcing community bonds, and maintaining religious and spiritual practices. Instruments like Ghudka, Sarangi, and Devgunia are integral to these performances, symbolizing identity and tradition. The study reveals that many of these traditions are tied to religious rituals and agricultural cycles, with performances occurring during specific festivals or times of the year. Furthermore, the research highlights the role of these folk traditions in social functions, particularly in promoting community cohesion and facilitating courtship among youth. However, the influence of modernization, coupled with a lack of formal documentation, poses challenges to preserving these traditions. The increasing popularity of classical dance forms like Odissi in the region adds to the cultural transformation. The discussion emphasizes the need for institutional support and more excellent documentation to preserve these folk traditions for future generations. Festivals, workshops, and financial support for folk artists are proposed as potential solutions to safeguard this intangible cultural heritage. In conclusion, while the folk music and dance of Western Odisha continue to thrive, proactive efforts are essential to protect and sustain these traditions in the face of modern challenges.

Social Networks as a Tool for Promoting Intangible Cultural Heritage of Ukrainian Regions (based on the materials of the information and communication content of Vinnytsia Regional Centre of Folk Art)

The purpose of the article is to comprehensively investigate the materials of the informational and communicative content of the Internet site and Facebook page of the Vinnytsia Regional Centre of Folk Art and to reveal the essential aspects of the use of social networks in the conditions of a full-scale invasion as an effective tool for the presentation and popularisation of the intangible cultural heritage of Vinnytsia as a region of Central Ukraine. The research methodology consists of general scientific and specific cultural approaches, principles and methods of scientific knowledge. The systemic-structural approach was applied to the study of the organisational and methodological activities of the Vinnytsia Regional Centre of Folk Art, aimed at popularising the intangible cultural heritage of the region. The internal connections and interaction of various components of the cultural and educational activity of the Centre for Cultural and Educational Activities, aimed at the presentation and popularisation of intangible cultural heritage in the conditions of a full-scale invasion, are revealed by the results of monitoring the materials of the Internet pages of the Centre (the Internet site and Facebook pages). Formal and comparative methods were used to analyse the institutional features of work in the Vinnytsia region as a region of Central Ukraine. The method of content analysis was used to generalise the publications of the Internet site and the information of the Facebook page of the Vinnytsia Regional Centre of Folk Art, dedicated to the intangible cultural heritage of Vinnytsia, contributed to the objective determination of the main thematic trends related to the investigated problem. The scientific novelty consists in substantiating, revealing and proving the effectiveness of the use of social networks as a really effective tool for expanding the role of regional centres of folk creativity in the presentation and popularisation of the intangible cultural heritage of Vinnytsia in the information field, in particular in the conditions of a full-scale invasion. On the basis of a practical study of the materials of the informational and communicative content of the Internet site and Facebook page of the Vinnytsia Regional Centre of Folk Art, the traditional culture of Vinnytsia, which contains a preserved living folk artistic culture with a classical / traditional folklore paradigm. The interaction of the Vinnytsia regional centre of folk creativity with institutions, cultural institutions and the external environment in the matter of preservation and popularisation of the intangible cultural heritage of Vinnytsia region was revealed. Conclusions. Summarising the positive experience on the materials of the information and communication content of the Vinnytsia Regional Centre of Folk Art (website and Facebook page) demonstrated concrete achievements in the presentation, popularisation and preservation of the intangible cultural heritage of Vinnytsia in the conditions of a full-scale invasion. It is argued that the digital representation of the content of the intangible cultural heritage of the regions of Ukraine, in particular Central Ukraine, in social networks is a really effective tool for popularising the intangible cultural heritage in the information field. It is concluded that the traditional culture of Vinnytsia contains a preserved living folk artistic culture with a classical / traditional folklore paradigm. It was noted that the employees of centres of folk creativity need to have the skills to work in the spheres of SEO and SMM, which requires constant improvement of professional qualifications and stimulation of scientific and creative approaches in this direction and is a continuously relevant requirement of the time.

ICT feasibility study to empower ethnic craftswomen to transit to intangible heritage under digital technology disruption and SDG’s: "Leave no one behind"

This study is qualitative research employing e-interviews, focus group discussions, and observations among the selected 15 key informants of craftswomen from three main ethnic tribes in Chiangmai province, North of Thailand named Karen, Akha, and Hmong together with the relevant stakeholders. Objectives are to study: 1) the socio-economic contexts of the three main ethnic craftswomen; 2) challenges and needs in terms of ICT and entrepreneurship skills; and 3) ICT and entrepreneurship skills needed to support the ethnic craftswomen to transit their intangible heritage. Findings found 1) similar demographic and socio-economic contexts among most of the three main ethnic craftswomen groups in their marginalized with least of formal education, less opportunities than male, but having a very important role to transit most of their tribal heritages both tangible and intangible heritages; 2) least of ICT knowledge and skills because of their misperceptions about ICT i.e. ICT is difficult, ICT is only designed for males and for the educated ones, and ICT is expensive. They need more ICT’s knowledge and skills to manage their own e- shops especially in e-banking, e-financial management, and e- orders respectively; 3) ICT needs found three main issues respectively : (1) ICT for documenting all crafts heritages; (2) ICT to transmit all the heritages through the new generations; and (3) more functional ICT for their better life and better entrepreneurship i.e. e-marketing, e-PR aims to be more visible and more functional in a better living, inclusion, and heritages’ pride.

Research on the Notation of Folk Urtiin Duu

This paper deeply explores the notation of Mongolian folk Urtiin Duu, an intangible cultural heritage, and focuses on how to scientifically and rationally record their unique artistic characteristics. The study points out that the simplified notation has the advantages of being easy to learn and flexible in key changes, and is the preferred choice for notating folk Urtiin Duu. In view of the difficulty in recording the free rhythm of folk Urtiin Duu, a method of grouping a group of sound forms based on the combination of the internal rhythmic rhythm and speed changes is proposed to solve the problem of recording non-equal rhythms. For the notation of the core techniques of the decorative elements of folk Urtiin Duu, such as Tashilaga and Nogula, the concept of the music theory symbol system is changed to accurately express them in order to protect the artistic essence of folk Urtiin Duu. In addition, the importance of the backing words in the singing of folk Urtiin Duu is emphasized, and it is advocated to record the backing words in a comprehensive manner to protect the traditional charm of folk Urtiin Duu. This paper comprehensively considers the selection of musical notation, the processing of rhythm, the application of decorative symbols and the standardized recording of filler words, aiming to provide a more scientific and reasonable musical notation strategy for the educational inheritance of folk Urtiin Duu, and promote the inheritance, protection and development of this precious cultural heritage.

Research on the Academic Inheritance of the Traditional Performance of Hilgasan Khuur

Shen Kuo, a scholar in the Northern Song Dynasty, wrote in Mengxi Bi Tan: "The Hilgasan Khuur follows the Han Dynasty, and the music still complains about the Chanyu." This is the earliest record of the term Hilgasan Khuur in history books. Hilgasan Khuur refers to bowed string instruments made of Hilgasan and carried by northern nomadic peoples. It originated from the Xiongnu and has been passed down to this day. The traditional Mongolian bowed string instruments such as the Morin Khuur, Khorchin Choor, Chahar Hiil, and OirdsYekel all belong to this category. As a bowed string instrument that has been passed down for thousands of years and carries a profound historical and cultural heritage, the inheritance and protection of the traditional playing method of the Hilgasan Khuur faces the impact and challenges of the development of modern music. This article summarizes the artistic characteristics of the four tuning methods, four playing methods and related traditional repertoires of the four instruments of the Hilgasan Khuur. By analyzing the history and current situation of the academic inheritance of the Hilgasan Khuur, it reveals the advantages and challenges of the academic inheritance. It emphasizes that under the background of national policies and the protection of intangible cultural heritage, promoting the academic inheritance of the traditional playing method of the Hilgasan Khuur has far-reaching significance for protecting the musical diversity of the Hilgasan Khuur and promoting national traditional culture.

Analysis of the Study on the Application of GSTC Criteria as an Instrument of Cultural Sustainability at the Kacirebonan Palace

Research has been conducted to analyze the application of GSTS criteria as an instrument for crocodile sustainability in the Kacirebonan palace. The method used in this study is a descriptive method with surveys, interviews, and literature studies from sharing related sources and documentation. The study results show that the Kacirebonan Palace has the potential for tourist objects and attractions that can be used as a tourism destination in developing the Kacirebonan Palace. Cultural tourist attractions are an advantage owned by the Kacirebonan Palace. Introducing culture to tourists who visit will positively impact the culture so that the culture is maintained and sustainable. The research uses two stages, the first stage identifying the types of tangible and intangible culture in the Kacirebonan Palace. The second stage is to interpret and analyze the results of data collection activities that are described qualitatively in a systematic and structured manner based on applying the GSTC criteria as an instrument of cultural sustainability in the Kacirebonan Palace. The Kacirebonan Palace, as one of the tourist destinations that is still developing, still needs various improvements and improvements in cultural sustainability based on the GSTC criteria as an instrument of cultural sustainability in the Kacirebonan Palace.