Ecomuseums in China: Challenges and Defects to the Existing Practical Framework

Abstract

This paper examines the shortcomings of the existing practical framework of ecomuseums in China. The social context of China’s ecomuseum practice is critically analysed and elaborated to show the particularity of community and community participation in the Chinese context. In this context, the framework of Chinese ecomuseum practice is critically examined to illustrate the defects. This study is based on a literature analysis; the existing Chinese and English literature on the theory and practice of ecomuseums in China has been critically reviewed and analysed. The study found that the existing framework lacks people-oriented long-term development goals and a precise definition of roles of all parties, which has resulted in a dilemma for relationship of ecomuseums and communities in the country. Based on existing studies on ecomuseums in China and other areas, the study also offers corresponding suggestions to modify the existing framework.

Study on Rural Revitalization in Hong Kong, China Based on the Concept of Eco-Museum: The Case of Yantianzi (Yim Tin Tsai)

“…Compared to other Chinese eco-museum projects which usually lack a clear delineation of roles (Li & Selim, 2021), Yantianzi has done an excellent work of defining the roles of all parties and forming a clear framework of responsibilities for implementation. With the collaborative efforts of the government, the Catholic Diocese, the Conservation Centre, third-party organizations, the villagers' village committee, and the Sacred Heart Church, the eco-museum in Yantianzi has taken shape and achieved some achievements.…”

“…At present, most of the ecological museums in China follow the government-led 'top-down' development model, which is known as the 'decay model' because of the lack of social participation of indigenous people and the difficulty of achieving true sustainability (Xue, 2016;Li & Selim, 2021). In contrast, the eco-museum in Yantianzi was initiated by the villagers incipiently, and the villagers' committee has always played an active role in village revitalization and development.…”

“…As relevant studies have concluded, "an eco-museum = territory + heritage + memory + population", a sufficient number of inhabitants is indispensable for the revitalization of the countryside and the creation of an eco-museum (Choi, 2017;Li & Selim, 2021). Yantianzi lacks a permanent population compared to other rural areas in Mainland China or HK.…”

“…Despite the fact that Yantianzi Eco-Museum is following a 'growth model' with active community participation, it also encounters difficulties in raising funds and the slow pace of construction, especially in its early stages (Li & Selim, 2021). Studies point out that the ecological and cultural conservation work of Yantianzi Eco-Museum is only at the educational and publicity stage, and lacks the permanent presence of professionals to put into practice (Zhu, 2022).…”

Towards Sustainable Rural Revitalization: A Multidimensional Evaluation of Rural Vitality in China's Traditional Villages

“…Rural revitalisation in China is considered a significant measure to address the loss of historical and cultural values and the lack of vitality in the development of China's traditional villages [14]. The aim of the action is to rediscover and highlight the vitality of rural 'traditional genes', tap into regional culture, preserve the cultural heritage of the countryside, and promote cultural revitalisation [15]. The new published policy in this context creates additional employment opportunities and facilitate the revitalisation of the local economy [9].…”