From Pages To Posts: the Evolution of Memory-Making From Scrapbooking To Instagram

Abstract

This paper examines the evolving practices of the act of scrapbooking and the application Instagram, emphasising their similarities and differences within the framework of digital culture. It analyses how the collective, tactile, and reflective nature of traditional scrapbooking has transitioned into the curated, and instantaneous experience of Instagram. The research explores the emotional and behavioural shifts associated with these forms of self-documentation, considering the interplay between physical and digital spaces and the evolution of self-representation within personal archives. Drawing on structured interviews with 35 participants in Turkey, all over the age of 30 and experienced both practices, the study reveals distinct strategies employed by individuals for emotional and aesthetic self-expression. Motivations for identity construction, memory preservation, and social connectivity shape these strategies. The findings highlight the coexistence of communal and individualistic tendencies within these practices, illustrating broader societal shifts in visual culture and memory-making. The article argues that personal archiving practices reflect an ongoing transformation influenced by technological advancements and shifting cultural values. While rooted in shared cultural traditions, scrapbooking and Instagram reveal significant divergences in how individuals engage with their emotions, self-presentation, and collective memory. The study concludes that individuals develop tailored approaches to satisfy both personal and social needs, demonstrating the evolving relationship between authenticity, performance, and memory in the digital age.