Sanjida Amir

Advisor: Mimi Locher

Abstract image with a pink and red background, featuring organic, swirling patterns and two human figures. A circular diagram overlays, labeled with words like "rituals" and "art."
Diagram illustrating Intangible Cultural Heritage with interconnected circles labeled "Intangible," "Cultural," and "Heritage." A tree represents various traditions, alongside a map of Canada, highlighting cultural diversity and heritage connections.
Definition and domains of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) by Unesco
Collage showcasing Indigenous heritage with traditional storytelling, healing, crafts, and vibrant festivals. A map indicates endangered cultures, with a downward trend in generational continuity. An arrow signals concern for future cultural preservation.
Significance and current scenario of ICH in Canada
Circular infographic depicting a canoe symbolizing connection between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people with elements like craftsmanship, traditions, and rituals. Icons at the top represent domains like storytelling and ecology. Six core values at the bottom include representation, inclusivity, and wisdom, conveying unity and cultural heritage.
The canoe as a cultural connector, linking five ICH domains and six core intangible values in the programmatic framework
Diagram illustrating canoe construction elements with material sources. Images show components like bark, ribs, roots, and labels for different tree types below, including White Birch and Eastern White Cedar.
Aerial illustration of a scenic landscape with a winding river, surrounding forest, curved building complex, and bridge. The scene exudes a calming, natural vibe.
Bird's eye view of the site
Illustration of a riverside scene with two people canoeing in the foreground. A modern wood and glass building is set amidst trees and a bridge in the background.
South East view of the site
A collage shows a forest observatory, walking gallery, canoe crafting studio, and riverbank. People interact, enjoying nature and creative spaces.
Views of key spaces in the masterplan and building

Paddling Through Heritage: A Vessel for Preserving Intangible Cultural Heritage  

Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) plays a significant role in any nation’s identity. It includes everything from oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, and festive events to traditional craftsmanship and Indigenous knowledge systems passed down from generation to generation. Unlike tangible heritage, ICH is called ‘Living Heritage’, which passes orally or through practice from generation to generation. ICH reflects a nation’s cultural values, legacy, and history. Canada’s ICH is rich and exceptional and encompasses more than 70 Indigenous languages, a unique tradition of storytelling, dynamic forms of dance and music, vibrant rituals and festivals, powerful traditional healing practices, valuable ecological wisdom, and outstanding skills in traditional craft, from beading to canoe-making. Despite its significance, Canada has not actively preserved or promoted its ICH. Despite its significance, Canada has not actively preserved or promoted its ICH.

Many forms of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Canada are endangered or at risk of becoming endangered. Moreover, the disconnection between the new generation and Canada’s intangible heritage has been growing in recent years. In Canada, the ICH is complex because it embodies the diversity of its Indigenous populations and settler history, reflecting on its cultural expressions. Many Indigenous and non-Indigenous people of Canada, including the youth, are unaware of these significant cultural expressions that shaped the country. This lack of awareness risks the gradual disappearance of these traditions. As a result, both Canada and the world are losing the unique aspects of the country’s cultural identity. It is not just a question of Canada’s cultural identity crisis but also about losing global recognition of its exceptional contributions to the world’s intangible heritage.   

This thesis aims to recognize, promote and preserve Canada’s ICH by reviving the craft of traditional canoe-making for present and future generations through architectural intervention. The goal is to reflect on the past and emphasize the importance of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) as a ‘Living Heritage.’ Overall, the thesis will help to raise awareness, enhance the sense of belonging, and protect Canada’s ICH for future generations as a nation’s collective memory and cultural identity.