VIRTUAL ISTANBUL HERITAGE(S)

Abstract

An abundance of signs and communication characterises our everyday lives and contemporary representations of the urban environment. In this paper, I examine the intersections between urban art, graffiti, memes and the significance of open spaces for a city: How do digital representations of order and disorder influence our image of urbanity and urban renaissance? What innovations stem from urban art, graffiti and memes as practices once associated with youth culture in hip-hop? In what ways do they express a modern understanding of cultural heritage that is constantly evolving in the digital realm? In this paper, I first examine the urban policy, urban planning and economic context of the issues described, using the ‘Starkart’ off-space – a street art gallery in Zurich – as a case study. Located in a derelict building, it is typical of the intersection between urban renaissance and urban resistance. Secondly, I explain key concepts and terms relating to street art, graffiti and memes, and their classification as cultural heritage. Thirdly, building on this foundation, the paper examines the issue of urban cultural heritage threatened by gentrification within a broader context of cultural and digital appropriation of the city. In doing so, I present findings from my research projects as well as from my numerous courses at the University of Zurich led by cultural studies students on the topics of street art, graffiti and memes, as well as by the co-lecturers and directors of the Street Art Gallery in Zurich, Roman Leu and Catherine Eisendle.