The Place and Importance of Intangible Cultural Heritage Elements in the Lives of Heritage Masters

Abstract

The primary purpose of this research is to determine heritage masters’ intangible cultural heritage (ICH) production practices, motivations, and perceived values and to learn their problems about the ICH. The qualitative research method was applied in this research. The qualitative research method is also essential for the participant to connect the past with the present and the future. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to determine the importance and place of ICH elements in the lives of heritage masters. A semi-structured interview is a technique that starts within the scope of questions determined by the researchers and continues according to the participant's answers during the interview. The answers to the questions were analyzed through thematic analysis. In the research, interviews were conducted with 11 heritage masters. Five questions were asked of heritage masters. The main theme, sub-themes, and sub-headings of the research were determined by analyzing the data obtained. The main theme of the research is the ICH elements of the lives of heritage masters. The research sub-themes are the beginning of ICH production, the delicacy of ICH production, ICH production motivations, ICH value perceptions, and ICH production problems. Because of local traditions, the knowledge and skills of the ICH are acquired mainly by boys at a young age. It demonstrates that masters have learned this art by transferring elements of the ICH from generation to generation. manual skill, creativity, and love for the work are essential in ICH production. It is crucial to propose different products not only with manual skills but also by adding creativity to the production. The main motivations of heritage masters are creating a new product, meeting people from different cultures, and gaining economic gain. Heritage masters stated that they relaxed psychologically with ICH production. They also pointed out that they devote an important time of their lives. For this reason, they stated that ICH elements are valuable for them. Lastly, they stated that they get to know different people through ICH production, which is why it is important for them. Heritage masters emphasize the increasing costs in ICH production, the lack of masters from the young generation, and unfair competition as the most important problems.