Heritage Icons
In choosing these Cultural Heritage Icons, the selectors will be considering three areas - object, events and concepts. The nominations will be assessed on the basis of significance in relation to the history and culture of the Northern Territory. The result will be a list of things that Territorians believe are quintessential facets of their cultural identity. One of the most important tools that will be used for selecting the icons is significance.
Significance
This is the sum total of all the aspects of an object, concept or event that make it important to a community. It is not fixed at any point in time. Some things become more important and thus gain significance over time; others lose it.
When considering whether something is eligible for nomination as a cultural heritage icon it will be important to think about its significance. Some of the questions to ask about something that may be proposed are;
What is its background and associations? Where and how does it fit into the culture of the Northern Territory? Does it say something about the way of life in the Territory? Is it a rare thing? Is it something that has not been recognised in any other formal way?
Selection Criteria
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Historical significance
Something may be historically significant for its association with people, events, places and themes in the Northern Territory. It may have importance because it is contributes to an understanding of the Territory's distinctive culture and history. -
Design/ Technical/ Aesthetic Significance
Something which has particular craftsmanship, design and technical qualities or appeals because it has distinctive quality and style recognised throughout the Territory may be said to have this significance. It may be ingenious, inventive or very practical but it will be particularly related to the Territory. -
Social/ Spiritual Significance
Something which is held in high esteem by the community and recognised throughout the Territory will have social significance. It would be something which the community believes is valuable and contributes to a greater sense of community. It could be something that the community regards with affection or even fear but it will contribute to a sense of identity. -
Scientific/ Natural Significance
Discoveries, developments, particular habitats, plants, animals or places that have importance to the Territory and are recognised by the whole community as being specifically related to the Northern Territory will be considered to have this significance.
Invitation to Nominate -