UiT The Arctic University of Norway
WP6 Lead: Britt Kramvig , prof. UiT
britt.kramvig@uit.no
New actors and spaces for improved collaboration, knowledge building, and inclusive decision-making
Overview & Objectives
WP6 will explore and implement innovative approaches to transform the roles of museums, archives, and libraries, positioning them as new knowledge stewards/new Elders, and foster a shift in the interactions among knowledge centers and coastal Arctic communities. This WP will build on WP3 and further uncover the potential of sea-and landscapes as living archives for inclusive marine environmental governance, implementing sensory and experiential exploration of knowledge embedded in land- and seascapes, through walking methods, embodied research approaches, storytelling, and mobility methods across land and sea.
WP6 uncovering the empowering potential of sea- and landscapes as living archives, through multimodal exploration of historical narratives. In order to foster a collective understanding of co-existence among diverse worlds by utilizing archives as repositories of land and seascapes memories and inherited stories impacted by colonialism. We will be concerned with integrating archival studies with the land/seascape and thus local and Indigenize practices to highlight the interwoven nature of past memories and present landscapes.
An important goal is to map practice of local engagement and involvement of local museums, heritage sites, and libraries to strengthen the visibility of Traditional Indigenous and local knowledge, answering the recommendations of the Norwegian Truth and Reconciliation Commission to rewrite official history, and contribute to a peaceful and sustainable Arctic.
Another important goal is to explore museums, archives, and libraries as new Elders: New actors and safer spaces for knowledge-building and exchange, and to explore and implement innovative approaches to transform the roles of museums, archives, and libraries, positioning them as new knowledge stewards/new Elders. Our aim is to broaden the scope of museums, libraries, and archive functions to evolve into vibrant research areas that align with community needs.
WP6 uncovering the empowering potential of sea- and landscapes as living archives, through multimodal exploration of historical narratives. In order to foster a collective understanding of co-existence among diverse worlds by utilizing archives as repositories of land and seascapes memories and inherited stories impacted by colonialism. We will be concerned with integrating archival studies with the land/seascape and thus local and Indigenize practices to highlight the interwoven nature of past memories and present landscapes.
An important goal is to map practice of local engagement and involvement of local museums, heritage sites, and libraries to strengthen the visibility of Traditional Indigenous and local knowledge, answering the recommendations of the Norwegian Truth and Reconciliation Commission to rewrite official history, and contribute to a peaceful and sustainable Arctic.
Another important goal is to explore museums, archives, and libraries as new Elders: New actors and safer spaces for knowledge-building and exchange, and to explore and implement innovative approaches to transform the roles of museums, archives, and libraries, positioning them as new knowledge stewards/new Elders. Our aim is to broaden the scope of museums, libraries, and archive functions to evolve into vibrant research areas that align with community needs.
Activities & Relational Methods
We wish to explore the potential of narratives to create understanding and community in areas with Norwegian, Sámi, and Kven populations, across generations, national borders, and economic interests, as well as across past and present. We will engage with historical archives, living memories, stories, songs and joiks to identify and uncover the connections between memories of sea and landscape, living principles, and traditional practices in coastal communities.
We will uncovering and discussing how local stories and memories can be utilized as local resources. We will explore what traditional knowledge and insights for future visions are hidden in the archives in relation to contemporary challenges. We are interested in uncovering the potential of landscapes as living archives and how such an ambition can contribute to transforming museums, archives, and libraries into knowledge stewards that promote knowledge exchange and strengthen community-based decision-making.
Expected Outcomes & Impact
Divrráid suohkan/ Dyrøy municipality will be an active partner. The place and landscape hold the living memories of Knut Lunde’s archives, sites, and heritage, in addition to being a coastal community. Together, we will design the project to align with local needs and foster a sense of ownership. We will collaborate with Nordavind Utvikling, local cultural workers, the community school, and elders to engage with our central questions. These include the Knut Lunde Historical Walk, a captivating exhibition, and writing workshops for children, organized by our partner Rulleramp (https://www.rulleramp.no/). Additionally, we will feature talks by local and academic speakers who specialize in traditional medical practices and healing. Our ongoing research will also be showcased, offering valuable insights into this fascinating field.
In Orjješ-Ráisa/Sørreisa, we will collaborate with Gamtofta Siida, a private/public Sámi heritage center that serves as the caretaker of the land.
By using walking as a way of learning, sharing stories, and building on Indigenous values and ways of knowing, we build relations between researchers, the museum and local communities in the Altafjord. Multiple perspectives will contribute to ongoing discussions about how the museum manages Sámi tangible and intangible cultural heritage and we will facilitate an open research seminar to discuss how this can support the development of museums as knowledge holders, to become new elders.
This work opens space for community-led conversations on food, healing, and memory in South Greenland. Guided by relational embodied ethics and refusal of extractive research, we use visiting, shared meals, and deep listening as method, and outcomes will emerge in reciprocity with the community.
Personnel
Research Areas
Click each place to read more
Álaheadju/Alta is a key Birgejupmi site, hosting workshops and working with Alta Museum. The museum’s Sámi heritage work helps counter colonial silencing and supports Indigenous empowerment and sustainable, knowledge-based development.
Orjješ-Ráisa/Sørreisa is a key Birgejupmi site, valued for local Sámi knowledge and community strength. In partnership with Gamtofta siida and healer Knut Lunde’s archive, it fosters research, dialogue, and Sámi heritage revitalization.
Nuuk, urban hub of Kalaallit Nunaat, is a key Birgejupmi site offering insight into Indigenous governance, education, and health. Home to key institutions, it supports indigenizing archives and One Health collaboration between Kalaallit Nunaat and Sápmi.
Narsaq in Kalaallit Nunaat is key to Birgejupmi’s One Health focus. Despite limited health services, it offers vital Indigenous knowledge, supporting seal hunting, cultural resilience, and youth-led exchange between Kalaallit Nunaat and Sápmi.
Uummannaq in northern Kalaallit Nunaat is a Birgejupmi site highlighting Indigenous health and knowledge in remote areas. Rooted in hunting traditions, it supports the One Health approach and fosters resilience, sustainability, and knowledge exchange with Sápmi.