Exploring Heritage Through Creative Acts
This Friday afternoon, the Thinker Maker Space of CYENS in Nicosia invites participants to an engaging workshop titled “Eating Our Heritage.” The event, guided by resident artist Dimitrii, seeks to reconnect displaced cultural heritage objects with their origins. Through decolonial acts, the workshop introduces innovative methods to integrate heritage into modern communal experiences.
The Vision Behind the Workshop
Dimitrii’s residency project serves as the foundation for this unique initiative. The project delves into radical approaches to heritage preservation, aiming to challenge conventional museum practices. By reimagining traditional displays and fostering hybrid connections, the workshop promotes an interactive and personal engagement with cultural heritage.
A Two-Part Hands-On Experience
Participants will collaborate in teams of five to embark on a journey of heritage rediscovery.
Part 1: Research and Representation
The session begins with a research activity where teams will explore online museum collections to identify displaced heritage objects from their cultural roots. After locating these items, participants will digitally capture their details and transfer their outlines onto parchment paper, creating tactile sketches that symbolize the first steps in reclaiming their heritage.
Part 2: Culinary Creation
In the second phase, the focus shifts to a communal culinary activity. Using traditional Greek honey cookie dough, known as melomakarona, participants will recreate the identified objects. This hands-on process involves shaping the dough into forms inspired by the heritage items, transforming them into edible representations. The objects will then be baked, coated in syrup, and shared among attendees at a communal table.
Reclaiming Heritage Through Taste
The act of “eating heritage” serves as a profound statement about reclaiming cultural symbols. By transforming heritage objects into ephemeral creations, the workshop challenges the notion of heritage as static and untouchable. Instead, it emphasizes the idea of cultural integration into contemporary practices, blending tradition with innovation. This sensory experience not only fosters a deeper connection to cultural roots but also celebrates the communal spirit through creativity and flavor.
Workshop Details
- Title: Eating Our Heritage
- Theme: Interactive exploration of displaced heritage objects through food
- Date: December 6
- Location: Thinker Maker Space of CYENS, Nicosia
- Time: 3 PM to 7 PM
- Cost: €15
- More Information: CYENS Maker Space Website
Rediscover and reimagine your cultural heritage in this inspiring, hands-on workshop that blends art, history, and gastronomy. Join the conversation, craft meaningful connections, and savor the taste of your heritage!