Keeping Traditions Alive
What is Folklore?
Folklore is the cultural knowledge, traditional beliefs and customs of a particular group of people, typically passed down orally from generation to generation. It not only encompasses myths, legends and tales, but also traditional arts, music, dance, and clothing. Folklore speaks of a greater identity that reflects both shared history and current values. With its roots in ancient wisdom but ever-growing presence in modern life, folklore is not just a cultural form but rather an ongoing conversation about the world and how we choose to interact with it. This conversational wisdom could shed light on some of the biggest issues we are facing in the world today, if only we choose to listen.
Globalization and modernization have posed numerous challenges in the preservation of traditional folk culture. With the influx of modern forms of entertainment, communication and more contemporary creative arts, these traditional cultural forms often fail to compete for the attention of youth populations. As the youth become more engaged with new ideas and solutions brought on by these advances in technology, they often neglect the cultural customs that have been passed down through generations. Beyond youth engagement, economic factors in certain regions can make it difficult for those attempting to engage in traditional arts or craftsmanship to make a living from their work as modernized technological advances can prove overwhelming. Globally popularized products where brands can profit overshadow sales of traditional folk artifacts. Without a way of getting their products out into the world, it can be difficult for local cultures to capitalize on their traditions and stories. As a result, many of these oral tales and traditional artmaking practices remain undocumented and risk becoming completely erased or forgotten over time.
The Threat to Traditional Culture
Undocumented Oral Traditions
Modernization and globalization are making digital solutions the norm for storing data and knowledge, but not all communities have access to such resources. When this is the case, these communities risk losing significant cultural stories and wisdom. Without tools that enable communication, education, documentation and preservation of identity, it can be difficult for these communities to hold onto their oral traditions without a way to share them with other members or wider audiences. With many indigenous languages facing extinction due to erosion of cultural identities and lack of intergenerational transmission, documenting these stories is a critical step towards revitalizing these unique cultures.
The Climate Crisis
Indigenous and tribal communities have been disproportionally impacted by climate change, as the effects of global warming continue to intensify. Due to this, these communities are facing an increasing number of impediments, including displacement from their traditional lands. Left without resources and access to land, these communities must find new ways to sustain themselves in terms of livelihoods and housing. Displacement has not just adversely affected their ability to make a living but also reduces their influence in society and amplifies social inequality. As the impacts of climate change progress, rural communities are forced to adapt to new conditions, resulting in the abandonment of some of their cultural traditions and practices.
Poor Youth Engagement
As young people interact with technology, it can have the unintended consequence of displacing their traditional customs and heritage. The allure of modernity and progress can entice some away from the lifestyles and values of their ancestors. This shift has been observed all over the world, with cultures and traditions slowly fading into memory. As later generations become more assimilated into a global society, many choose to move away from the traditions that were part of their community’s history for centuries.
Our Approach
We believe that the innovative use of conceptual art and fictional storytelling can help marginalized communities around the world preserve their heritage and share cultural knowledge more effectively than through traditional methods of communication such as journalism and documentary filmmaking. Using highly creative channels allows individuals to digest difficult material while also inspiring a deeper connection to achieve cultural awareness and opportunities for social impact. Learn more about our mission below.