Heritage & Creativity
We are shaped by our heritage, as individuals and as societies. Our biological heritage comes merely from the genes, but our cultural heritage comes from the whole history of humankind. It is brought to us through the remains of past communities, whether living millions of years ago or just yesterday: their buildings and artifacts; their literature, language and music; their dance, film and social tradition; their YouTube videos and tweets. What does cultural heritage tell us about the past? How does our cultural heritage influence the manner in which we think and behave today? How does it build a feeling of community and belonging – or conversely create alienation and social fragmentation? What value should we place on heritage? How do we manage the competing values and demands of multiple stakeholders? How do we foster creativity in our own communities to shape those of the future?
Our research is making a difference to people’s lives through exploration of their sense of place and identity. We are exploring the ethics and values of heritage and cultural works to different audiences, as well as the business and economics of creativity. We are using our nationally designated museums, collections and archives alongside our research excellence in historical, creative and analytical disciplines, to explore the experience and impact that global challenges have on real people.
Our research in Heritage & Creativity directly links with our research in Environment, Food, Health and Prosperity & Resilience.