The Role of Empathy in Reliving Indigenous Cultural Heritage: Insights from Arts Ceduna, South Australia

Globally, Indigenous cultures face existential threats from historical colonization, contemporary globalization and ongoing cultural assimilation. This study examines the role of empathy in reinterpretation and reliving Indigenous cultural heritage (ICH), focusing on a case study from South Australia involving a conversation with an Indigenous artist facilitated by Arts Ceduna. Empathy, encompassing cognitive, affective and behavioural components, is vital for fostering mutual respect, understanding and collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. This chapter explores how empathy aids in blending traditional elements with contemporary influences and addresses power dynamics, historical trauma and systemic inequalities. This study engages with the Indigenous artist community in Ceduna by utilizing qualitative interviews and participatory observation to understand how empathy influences ICH reinterpretation. The findings indicate that empathy enhances cultural preservation, facilitates the integration of traditional and contemporary elements, empowers Indigenous communities and promotes social justice. This study discusses the challenges and limitations of empathy-based approaches, such as superficial engagement and power imbalances. It proposes strategies for enhancing empathy in cultural preservation initiatives, including cultivating cultural understanding, centering Indigenous voices and agency, promoting cross-cultural benefits and facilitating dialogue and reconciliation. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of empathy dynamics in ICH and suggests more inclusive and effective strategies for upholding Indigenous cultural and intellectual property (ICIP) right