How creative participation can transform people's relationship with historic houses by placing communities at the centre of interpretation.

The 'Value of Participatory Arts in Historic Houses' project explored how creative participation can transform people's relationships with historic houses by placing communities at the centre of heritage interpretation. Delivered by ArtsEkta in partnership with the National Trust and Queen's University Belfast at Mount Stewart, the project brought together artists, local residents, culturally diverse communities, researchers and heritage professionals to explore stories of identity, migration, global connections and belonging through creative practice.

Rather than viewing historic houses solely as monuments to the past, the project demonstrated how they can become living cultural spaces where contemporary communities contribute new perspectives and interpretations. Through artist-led workshops, storytelling, visual arts, dialogue and co-creation, participants engaged with Mount Stewart's collections, landscapes and histories, creating opportunities to connect personal experiences with shared heritage.

Dr Nisha Tandon OBE is the founder & director of ArtsEkta, an organisation that promotes intercultural arts, culture and heritage across Northern Ireland. In 2017 she established the Belfast Mela.

Nisha holds a degree from the National School of Drama in New Delhi. She has been a board member of Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Cultural Cities Enquiry and currently serves as Board member on Community Relations Council. In June 2014, she was awarded an OBE for services to the minority ethnic sector in the 2014 Queen's Honours List. In 2015, Nisha won the British Indian Award for 'Indian Spirit in the Community' presented by Trade Next and BDO. In 2023 Nisha received an Honorary doctorate from Queens University for service to the communities. She also won an outstanding achievement award of MRANI in 2023.

Description supplied by the event organiser.