Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) refers to practices, expressions, and knowledge recognized by communities as part of their cultural identity (UNESCO, 2003). Unlike tangible heritage, ICH is a living, distributed knowledge embedded in people, places, and actions. Central to its transmission is the concept of memory, which becomes collective and dialogic when activated in cultural contexts. This paper explores how inclusive design can support the activation and intergenerational transmission of ICH, especially by involving older adults as cultural mediators. Rather than viewing them as passive custodians, the study frames them as active agents capable of engaging in storytelling, reinterpretation, and co-creation. By leveraging participatory methods and digital tools, even home-based individuals can contribute to shared heritage-making processes. Through case studies such as Mingei and iHERITAGE, the paper highlights how design can foster social inclusion, strengthen community bonds, and promote heritage as a dynamic, evolving practice.
In/active. The Role of Design in the Creation and Transmission of Collective Memory
Porfirione, Claudia;Leggiero, Isabel
2026-01-01
Abstract
Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) refers to practices, expressions, and knowledge recognized by communities as part of their cultural identity (UNESCO, 2003). Unlike tangible heritage, ICH is a living, distributed knowledge embedded in people, places, and actions. Central to its transmission is the concept of memory, which becomes collective and dialogic when activated in cultural contexts. This paper explores how inclusive design can support the activation and intergenerational transmission of ICH, especially by involving older adults as cultural mediators. Rather than viewing them as passive custodians, the study frames them as active agents capable of engaging in storytelling, reinterpretation, and co-creation. By leveraging participatory methods and digital tools, even home-based individuals can contribute to shared heritage-making processes. Through case studies such as Mingei and iHERITAGE, the paper highlights how design can foster social inclusion, strengthen community bonds, and promote heritage as a dynamic, evolving practice.
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