Qisetna's "Return to Tenderness" project focuses on preserving the cultural and oral heritage of communities affected by conflict and displacement, particularly in Syria. The project was highlighted at the Protection of Tangible and Intangible Cultural Heritage Conference, where an article about music heritage and young people, written by Juan delGado and Sarah Barker was shared. The initiative aims to document and preserve Syrian cultural heritage, with a particular emphasis on the artistic heritage of Raqqa.
Launched in 2021, the project was initiated by Juan delGado, a socially engaged artist and founder of the organisation Qisetna along with a group of young people from the city of Raqqa in NorthEastern Syria. Through collaboration they trace the musical and intangible heritage of this city by the Euphrates.
The project aims to create long term intergenerational relationships, with young people becoming actively engaged in the recording of the stories from the elders. Digital technology provides an opportunity for this community to change the perception of how others see them.
Using digital technology and inclusive methodology they establish an ongoing trustful relationships with local musicians and singers from the old generation. The local team interviewed and recorded their music and stories, what inspired them, how they connect their music with the oral heritage of their community.
