ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on early research from the Mapping Contemporary Art in the Heritage Experience project which examines the developmental trajectory and scope of contemporary art in heritage practice in the UK. Despite strong support from major national institutions, the actual experience and impact of such projects on their producers, participating heritage properties, and their public audiences remain poorly understood. The chapter examines the trajectory of ‘contemporary art in heritage’ practice in a UK context, through reference to particular institutional developments, sites, and commissions. It reveals an intersection of interests and convergence of practices that, arguably, contributes to a ‘reimagining of heritage’ and how it is produced and experienced. The origins of contemporary art in heritage practice can be traced back to the 1980s, to a developing heritage industry, the setting up of academic courses in heritage studies, and the emergence of energetic heritage debates: the ‘legacy’ of which has defined and shaped our current perceptions of heritage.
