How do you document a festival that’s shaped by mediums, shifting rituals, and temple networks that sometimes hold differing perspectives?
In this special community heritage seminar, cultural historian and curator Dr Lin Chia-Tsun shares her years-long journey working with temples across Singapore to document the Nine Emperor Gods Festival—one of the most complex and spiritually charged celebrations in the Chinese calendar.
Drawing from her deep engagement with temple caretakers, mediums, devotees and heritage volunteers, Dr Lin reflects on the process of building trust with a decentralised and diverse temple community, navigating religious sensitivities, and co-creating meaning in spaces where oral tradition and sacredness often hold more weight than written record.
Through behind-the-scenes stories, visual materials, and field recordings, she offers insights into the challenges of documenting intangible heritage—and the power of patience, presence, and partnership in overcoming them.
About the Speaker
Dr. Lin Chia-Tsun is a cultural historian and curator based in Singapore, renowned for her expertise in Chinese diaspora studies, migration, and intangible cultural heritage. She also serves as an instructor at the Singapore University of Social Sciences.
Her academic work delves into the globalization of diasporic Chinese voluntary associations, examining how these networks negotiate identity and tradition in contemporary contexts.
Beyond academia, Dr. Lin actively engages the public through cultural programming. She has led sessions on Taoist traditions, such as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, offering insights into the rituals and community significance of these practices.
Dr. Lin's work bridges scholarly research and community engagement, contributing significantly to the preservation and understanding of Singapore's rich multicultural heritage.
Who should come?
Duration & Meeting Place
- Approximate Duration: 2.0 hours
- Language: English
- Please meet at My Community's Office (61 Stamford Road, Stamford Court, #04-13, Singapore 178892)
Other important information
- Please arrive 15 minutes before the talk for registration.
- Event is wheel-chair friendly.
- Parking is available in the vicinity.
Disclaimer
- Videos and photographs may also be taken during the event. By registering for this event, you give My Community full rights to use the photos for marketing and publicity.
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