The ‘Living Museum’: Exploring Tradition Preservation and Craft Revival Through Communities

Much like all living things, traditions, and Culture grow and Change. They go beyond the lifetime of an individual making
them more than just organic, but supra-organic (SU LMS, n.d.). This desire for knowledge has driven societies to uncover,
document and showcase artefacts in museums. According to the International Council of Museums, a museum is a
permanent establishment that exhibits and interprets the heritage of its society (International Council of Museums, 2023). Traditionally, museums have separated artifacts from organic society, creating structures to protect and control
elements of the past for education. Although this model has served societies well, evolving societal needs demand a
new approach. Museum 3.0 aims to incorporate technology and digitalization, creating more accessible and immersive experiences, especially for remote audiences (What Is Museum 3.0? – Museum of UnRest, 2023). Shen et al. (2024) found that AR
museum experiences reduced anxiety and heightened attention. While innovative, this model might widen the gap between users and their culture. This study explores a novel museum model grounded in community engagement, utilizing a pre-digital approach to realize Museum 3.0, preserve traditions, and revive crafts. Two case studies in Zambia—Zeela Art Gallery and Mukuni Village—were selected based on their distinct community-driven experiences. Information was gathered through personal tours, with verbal consent for photographs and handwritten notes. The cases were evaluated using a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ method based on Museum 3.0 elements.