Recollections of Vattaja - Preserving collective place memories through applied visual art

Abstract

This study examines how applied visual art can be used in the context of communal place memory work. Theoretical background for the work is multidisciplinary and comes from humanistic geography, sensory ethnography, memory studies, microhistory and contemporary art done in the context of memories.

The research was conducted as a part of the Visualising Kämppävattaja - project. Memories were collected about a seaside cabin village that the community had lost. Different possibilities to use art as a tool for recollection were tested with community participants, both as a collective and as individuals. Data was collected with enhanced interviews, workshops and auto-ethnographic work and part of the work was shown in an exhibition.

The first research question focuses on different methods applied visual arts can be used in eliciting and collecting place memories. The second question considers how applied visual art can be used to process and present collected place memories. These main questions opened up contemplation about the value of accuracy and aesthetics in collective memory work. Some consideration was given to the possible mending effect recollections process could have for the community when working with a lost place.

The artistic conclusion showed different methods that worked well to elicit memories. Remembering a place was easier if with sensory experiences and with the textuality of the place.

Creating a narrative helped the participants and the researcher process memories. Tested methods showed clearly that the type of art done with the participants affected how the remembering process happened.