Contextualizing “traditional crafts” in historic urban areas

Abstract

Purpose Traditional crafts, practised by local communities, contribute significantly towards intangible heritage. The study situates traditional crafts in historic urban areas, establishes its relevance and deliberates on the factors affecting it. Design/methodology/approach The methodology included questionnaire survey followed by semi-structured interviews. On-site observations were also taken as part of the methodology. Findings The study contextualizes traditional crafts in historic areas and throws light on the transformation processes in these crafts due to socio-cultural, economic, political and other factors. Through studies at three different historic settlements, it provides a wider understanding of the dynamics of the same craft in different setting. Practical implications The study would help in formulating guidelines for heritage management with respect to traditional crafts in historic urban areas. Social implications The study brings out the role of intangible cultural heritage that is inherent to the local communities in historic urban areas. Originality/value Traditional crafts have been largely studied in their independent context. This study looks at the context specific to the place of creation of these crafts within the larger ecosystem of raw material-production-sale in historic urban areas. Also, with discussions on intangible heritage in context of the historic urban areas being largely an unexplored territory till recent times, this study will add to the earlier dialogue.

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