About ISKA

The framework programme ISKA (the Cultural Heritage of the Industrial Society) in Västernorrland is an initiative based on broad regional collaboration, whose aim is to support development projects dealing with our cultural heritage.

ISKA is built on the insight that cultural heritage can be a resource in regional development. It is our conviction that cultural heritage has the potential to provide improved quality of life and growth in our county.

The modern history and identity of Västernorrland County formed through the evolution of the industrial society. These 200 years of social realignment have had an enormous impact on the lives of people here and now, how we think, how we live and how the landscape around us looks. We are in possession of a unique cultural storehouse, waiting to be discovered and used by us in the present day.

We live in an age of transition. Our society is changing, and we with it. The importance of heavy industry is diminishing, Västernorrland is a county characterised by de-industrialisation and depopulation. The relics of the industrial society can be found in the memory of those who were part of it, or as notes in archives, as objects in collections, and as cultural environments in our area.
The Cultural Heritage of the Industrial Society encompasses accounts of industries and companies, as well as stories of our traditions, gender roles, philosophies and ideas. The history of the industrial society contains every conceivable type of excitement, great deeds, betrayals, inventions, tragedies, human fate and world events. The stories here are worthy to be rediscovered, reinterpreted and retold; giving us a new perspective on and new insights about ourselves. There are also stimulating cultural settings which can be used in new and creative ways.

Read the ISKA framework programme statement 2003-2005

Read the ISKA framework programme statement 2000-2002