Case Study

Community Engagement for Asaan Museum

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Introduction

The Asaan Museum, initiated by the Misk Foundation, is set to become a world-renowned cultural hub in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the nation's rich and diverse heritage, with a particular emphasis on intangible heritage. STUCK? was tasked with conducting a comprehensive cultural insight project, grounded in authentic, community-driven narratives, to shape the museum's development.

Project Overview

STUCK? was responsible for the entire engagement process, from designing sessions and selecting moderators to facilitating in-person and online engagements and compiling comprehensive final reports delivered to Misk Foundation. The focus was on ensuring that the museum would reflect the true diversity and depth of the Saudi culture and its intangible heritage.

Research Methodology

A qualitative research approach was implemented through co-creation sessions, including: In-Person Sessions: Conducted in key cities—Abha, Riyadh, Jeddah, Ha’il, and Dammam with local participants. These sessions involved moderators and Asaan team co moderators, ensuring a seamless and inclusive dialogue. Online Sessions: To include rural perspectives, four online sessions targeted rural participants from regions surrounding Jeddah, Asir, Ha’il, and Dammam. Dina El Sehrawy, Head of Research at STUCK?, facilitated these discussions, comparing urban and rural views on intangible heritage.

Sessions Implemented

In both session types, participants were encouraged to share personal narratives, cultural insights, and imaginative exercises, such as envisioning their region in 2050. This methodological approach proved effective in capturing the multifaceted nature of Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape.

Deliverables

Bilingual Report

A bilingual report detailing research and insights generated from community sessions

Bilingual discussion guides

Bilingual discussion guides, questionnaires and discussions prompts

Audio Recordings

Audio recordings, along with accompanying transcripts and translations