eritage Conservation helps preserve intangible local cultures - A good heritage conservation strategy looks at both tangible and intangible heritage resources in an integrated manner
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Heritage intangibles
When the term 'heritage' is used, the general public usually assume that reference in being made to buildings with ancient, religious and/or historical values. Heritage, of course, is much more than just physical or tangible assets. A good heritage conservation strategy will have to integrate intangible assets as well, creating a smooth continuum between them.
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Forums to highlight intangibles
What are intangible assets? These include art, dance, music etc. expressed through festivals, market fairs, exhibitions, competitions, and other aspects of the local culture and religion. These forms of assets are at the same time unique in the heritage value they individually represent, and are also an intrinsic part of the local cultural fabric. Therefore, setting up forums of local citizens (such as association, clubs or committees) go a long way in highlighting the importance of the assets, and will also bring the local community together.
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Role of mass media
The mass media - print, electronic and online - play an important role in raising awareness and educating the local communities on heritage issues and the value they represent for them. Seeking their active involvement in the heritage conservation action right from the beginning will ensure that the local community is informed and involved in the activities.
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Skill transfer
A critical part of a good heritage conservation strategy that fosters and preserves both tangible and intangible assets, is the issue of heritage skill transfer. Skill transfer can take place in a variety of ways. These include for example, apprenticeships where youth can learn the skills under a master craftsman. (Master craftsmen may in fact be designated as 'living assets' of the local culture, as is done in Japan). Other means of skills transfer include scholarship, academic research and other ways of local learning and doing.
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The 'Glocalization' phenomenon
Preserving both tangible and intangible heritage assets has received a boost from globalization processes. This includes the fear of anonymity of a 'global' culture and loss of heritage assets on one hand, but also, on the other hand, the increased access to locally relevant information and tourism opportunities that it brings. This interlinking between the very local and very global aspects is referred to as the 'Glocalization' process - and has clear implications for heritage conservation as well!
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