Artists and artisans : a symbiotic relationship between contemporary artists and traditional artisans for the safeguarding and sustainability of ICH craftsmanship in Hong Kong

Abstract

Extending beyond the sole preservation in terms of conventional approaches, conservation professionals are beginning to embrace changes that are relevant to contemporary demands for the sustaining of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). There has been an attempt of incorporating installation-art in conservation processes in Hong Kong since the latter half of the decade. This research thesis evaluates the effectiveness of this emerging approach in Hong Kong with the 5As Cultural Creativity Framework (Glăveanu, 2013), which sets a clear model of interaction among local members. Using the case study of the revitalization programme for wooden furniture crafting technique initiated by the Jockey Club ICH+ Innovative Heritage Education Programme (ICH+), this research provides substantial evidence of how installation-art practice encourages communities’ novelty to enrich ICH practice. It is proven that installation-art can serve as a vigorous provocative tool and contribute to a strong base of community engagement in ICH conservation. These findings call for more extensive research regarding diverse ICH items in the local context, eventually, providing tangible insights on strategies to achieve ICH revitalization that embody contemporary creativity.