Prof. Claire Wallace (University of Aberdeen)
Zeit Montag, 2.3.2026, 18.00 – 19.30 Uhr
Ort: Europäisches Zentrum für Wohlfahrtspolitik und Sozialforschung, 1090 Wien,
Berggasse 17 (Eingang im Hof links, Stiege 3, 2. Stock, Konferenzraum)
Abstract.
Culture-led regeneration has been seen as a way to improve deindustrialised and neglected
areas in urban contexts, often using “top-down” policy initiatives that may not benefit local
communities. This study examines the introduction of the Great Tapestry of Scotland into the
rural, run-down former textile town of Galashiels. Based on a case study, we argue that the
successful implementation of culture-led regeneration in a non-metropolitan context requires
harnessing local civil society leadership by building on social and cultural capital. This raises
the question of how culture is valued and reframed, with some cultures becoming ascendant
while others are overlooked. Overall, we argue for a place-based understanding of cultural
regeneration.
Claire Wallace is Professor of Sociology at the University of Aberdeen. She is Director of
Research for Social Sciences in Aberdeen and was previously Vice-Principal for Research.
She previously worked at the Institut für Höhere Studien in Vienna. Her different international
roles include being President of the European Sociological Association and Editor of its
flagship journal European Societies. Much of her work has been concerned with understanding
quality of life in Europe and elsewhere. The research presented is based upon a Horizon
2020 project about cultural tourism and its impacts.
Im Anschluss laden wir zu einem kleinen Buffet.