Abstract
This study investigates the impact of rapid urbanisation on place identity, focusing on Sembawang, a residential district in Singapore. By leveraging narrative approaches within the field of cultural geography, the intention is to uncover the stories that can shape Sembawang’s identity. The findings of this research provide insights to enhance the sense of affection and attachment between the residents and the place. The study details the methodology for uncovering interconnected stories within Sembawang to shape its place identity. It acknowledges the diverse voices and tensions of the residents while exploring how their varied experiences and shared stories foster a sense of belonging and resonance within the community. Using narrative inquiry, this research surfaces the multiplicity of stories within the place to understand individuals’ emotional connections with their surroundings. To capture Sembawang’s identity beyond its physicality, affective and non-representational dimensions are employed as an analytical framework. This approach investigates the interplay of emotions in shaping human experiences and interactions with the environment, portraying the nuanced, lived experience. By asserting the importance of surfacing diverse human experiences and identifying the collective resonance of these stories, Sembawang’s identity can surface, fostering a sense of resonance and belonging among its residents. In conclusion, this study highlights the role of interconnected stories in shaping Sembawang’s identity. It cultivates a sense of affection, attachment, and belonging among all its inhabitants, strengthening the community’s overall sense of place.
Presenters
Christabel TengVice Dean, Faculty of Art and Design, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts - University of the Arts Singapore, Central Singapore, Singapore
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Place Identity; Narrative Approaches
