Niamh MacKenzie

Supervisors

Prof. Mairéad Nic Craith, Prof. Ullrich Kockel, Dr Oisín Plumb, Dr Ben Thomas (Historic Environment Scotland) and Colin Tennant (Historic Environment Scotland)

Research Title

Drystane Dyking: Understanding Cultural Significance and Developing Skills in Scottish Communities

Research Abstract

Using an ethnological approach, this project explores the cultural significance of drystone walling (drystane dyking). Drystane dyking is described by UNESCO as the ‘the knowhow related to making stone constructions by stacking stones upon each other, without using any other materials except sometimes dry soil.’ Framing traditional crafts as Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), it explores how skills training can be provided to promote sustainable development in rural contexts whilst also acknowledging and celebrating the traditional knowledge attached to the craft. The research will examine how UNESCO’s 2018 inscription of drystone walling as ICH impacts on its international perception and the potential consequences of the UK’s ratification of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Spring 2024. Niamh’s research utilises various case studies throughout the Highlands and Islands whilst also drawing on examples from Ireland to provide valuable comparison. The research aims to assess how craftspeople can be better supported to create opportunities in drystane dyking for creativity, training, and tourism.

Biography

Niamh MacKenzie is a full-time PhD student based predominantly at Perth College but working across the Highlands and Islands. Her PhD is funded by The Scottish Graduate School for Arts and Humanities and is a Collaborative Doctoral Award in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland. Before starting her PhD, Niamh completed her honours degree in Culture & Heritage with UHI in 2018. She then graduated with an MLitt in Scottish Literature from The University of Stirling in 2019. Her interest in Scotland’s living heritage span across the arts as well as traditional practices and craftsmanship. Niamh has worked in a variety of fields but most recently worked for an independent bookshop as their Website Manager and as a Project Assistant at a rural community arts organisation.

Contact email address 09017414@uhi.ac.uk