“Industrial heritage encompasses an intangible dimension”: Eduardo Saucedo and the heritage narrative.
Anthropologist Eduardo Saucedo, from the National Institute of Anthropology of Mexico, has dedicated two decades to research and teaching in fields such as industrial and intangible heritage, museology, and education. His work also focuses on connecting research with local communities and society to foster critical thinking.
Saucedo emphasizes the importance of industrial heritage and how these assets are a crucial part of the history and identity of many communities, although they are often overlooked compared to monuments and traditions.
Despite the relevance of industrial heritage, its understanding is still evolving. Saucedo points out that only around 200 years have passed since the industrial revolutions, making it difficult to gain a complete historical perspective.
The researcher underscores the need for academia to delve into the history of these heritage assets and listen to the stories of the communities and social groups surrounding them.
“Treating and valuing these heritages, doing something with them that is not just a ‘good.’ Understanding that it can also serve us to generate historical awareness, civic value, heritage education, and see what implications this has for the world in the face of current challenges,” defines the anthropologist.
To bring citizens closer to industrial heritage, Saucedo mentions strategies such as educational programs and diplomas, such as the Diploma in Collaborative Methodologies for Heritage Projects with a Critical Approach. He also emphasizes the importance of opening communication spaces between experts and the general public.
“We do not reflect on the fact that this industrial heritage includes an intangible dimension. It has practices, knowledge, and ideas that give it meaning. One of the challenges is to understand more deeply the implications, importance, and how this material asset serves us, as academics and as part of society,” Saucedo commented.
Saucedo advocates for integrating recent history into the narrative of industrial heritage, as many of these assets have direct connections with recent historical events that are still evolving.
In the context of the IV Congress, Saucedo highlights the importance of understanding the categories of heritage (natural, cultural, intangible, and industrial) and how they are interconnected. He also emphasizes the intangible dimension of industrial heritage, which encompasses practices, knowledge, and ideas.
Furthermore, he urges to treat these heritages as tools to generate historical awareness, civic value, heritage education, and address current challenges.
Photography by NTCD.