The foundation assists local partners in developing technological skills which will enable them to achieve their goals more effectively and efficiently. We regard technological grants as a tool, not an end in themselves. A recent collaboration with the Sichuan Minorities Research Institute and Columbia University in New York focused on a grant for training young scholars in ethnographic field methods, introducing them to the skills required for documentation and preservation of their unique local folk traditions.

In summer 2002 Trace Foundation collaborated with Tsongon Tibetan Folk Art and Literature Magazine to run a two week workshop on folk culture research methodology. In a project in Yushu Prefecture, Qinghai Province, the foundation assisted the Yushu Nationalities School to create an exhibit of local cultural artifacts from their collections, and run an introductory workshop on exhibit design and museum studies. Using mainly local resources, the exhibit aims to stimulate local interest in the preservation of traditional culture, particularly amongst young people.

Another way in which the foundation supports the work and professional development of indigenous scholars is to fund their participation at international conferences, where their voices can be heard alongside those of foreign specialists. Grants of this kind are categorized and listed under International Cooperation. The host institution usually selects beneficiaries and distributes funds.

Recent Grants in Documenting Culture

Yushu Vocational School
Yushu (Jyekundo) Prefecture, Qinghai (Tsong'on) Province

Grant funds were used to run an introductory workshop on conservation for participants from different areas of Qinghai, and to create a locally-based ethnographic exhibit using Yushu Vocational School's collection. The school coordinated the workshop and provided a site for the exhibit, as well as assisting with selection of participants and providing accommodation for them during the workshop

Amount of Support: $7,031

Tsong'on Tibetan Folk Art and Literature Magazine
Xining (Siling), Qinghai (Tsong'on) Province

In collaboration with the local partner, Trace Foundation ran a two-week workshop on folk culture research methodology, jointly selecting participants and designing curriculum. The magazine will publish a summary of the workshop contents in its December 2002 issue

Amount of Support: $5,547

Sichuan Nationalities Research Institute
Chengdu, Sichuan Province

To conduct a six-week Folk Culture Preservation Training Course for students and staff from the Sichuan Provincial Tibetan Institute, consisting of training and practice in ethnographic field methods and analysis, including a fieldwork component. The Sichuan Nationalities Research Institute produced three sets of original research data gathered during the fieldwork stage.

Amount of Support: $14,286

Kunchog Tenzin
Kangding (Dartsedo), Ganzi (Kandze) Prefecture, Sichuan Province

To research and compile a book documenting traditional Tibetan handicrafts, including the use of still photography and video footage. Scholar Kunchog Tenzin spent 18 months traveling in Tibetan regions to research this book and arranged for its publication.

Amount of Support: $15,115

Sichuan Provincial Tibetan Institute
Kangding (Dartsedo), Ganzi (Kandze) Prefecture, Sichuan Province

With a capital equipment grant consisting of audio equipment, computer software, supplies, and training, SPTI is creating an audio-digital archive of the institute's collection of lectures and speeches by prominent scholars. SPTI is responsible for the digital transfer process, organizing and maintaining the archive, and maintenance and upkeep of the equipment.

Amount of Support: $468

Sichuan Provincial Tibetan Institute
Kangding (Dartsedo), Ganzi (Kandze) Prefecture, Sichuan Province

Provided a capital equipment grant consisting of one desktop computer and two digital video cameras to be used by the institute in collecting and processing data related to local folk culture. The Sichuan Provincial Tibetan Institute set up a system for the ongoing management of the equipment, and provided a dedicated office for its storage and use.

Amount Granted: $10,022