Heritage Dynamics

How does heritage emerge, change, stagnate, disappear and/or revive over time? Should heritage be approached as a ‘non-renewable resource’ that needs to be sustained for eternity, or as a ‘renewable resource’ that adapts to change and transformation?

Heritage Dynamics deconstructs the dynamic nature of heritage. Heritage as a socio-cultural practice goes through non-linear, continuous lifecycles, where certain factors will be the catalyst for the ending of one lifecycle and the revival for another. Kalliopi Fouseki develops a theoretical and methodological framework of ‘heritage dynamics’, which is used as the analytical thread of six heritage contexts: heritage-led transformation in historic urban places; decision-making on energy efficiency and heritage conservation in ‘everyday heritage’ residential buildings; lifecycles of heritage collections; exhibition dynamics and the impact of participation with emphasis of ‘difficult heritage’; dynamics of dissonance on contested museums and the dynamics of ‘intangible heritage’ with emphasis on flamenco.

The book offers a new theoretical and methodological framework that will enable heritage scholars and practitioners to unpack the ways and conditions under which heritage changes. The new theoretical framework will re-orientate current thinking of heritage as a thing, a process or discourse towards a new, more systemic thinking that captures the complexity of heritage.

Methodologically, Heritage Dynamics introduces the potential of systemic methods, such as system dynamics, in capturing the dynamic nature of heritage. The new theory and method not only opens up new avenues for theoretical explorations, but also offers a significant tool for heritage managers and policymakers.

Praise for Heritage Dynamics

‘In this innovative and highly important study, Fouseki challenges our concept of heritage by emphasising elements of change and adaptation. Combining theory and practice in a unique study, this work will be an essential addition to the field.’
Ross Wilson, University of Nottingham

'‘Heritage Dynamics’ encourages a shift from ‘“materiality”, “authenticity” and “originality”’ towards ‘“creativity”, “adaptation” and “innovation”’. This shift in focus can be helpful in the current discourse of sustainable heritage development, and I would add care, grounded in a theoretical framework that emphasises contextuality and change as part of the process.'
Journal of the Institute of Conservation