Urban spaces and subcultural dynamics in Klaipeda in 1991–2010

The main issue discussed in the article is relationship between urban spaces and subcultural identity: what empirical analysis of subcultural places say about social processes in a city? The present study is empirical reconstruction of the dynamics of musical subcultures as spatial phenomena in a post-Soviet city (Klaipeda, Lithuania) and covers two decades of rapid urban changes. In our study of post-Soviet period we follow Marxists interpretation proposed by CCCS about relationship between hegemonic youth category and subculture, apply Kevin Hetherington’s theory of expressive identity, and empirically explore Michel Maffesoli’s ideas about changing sociality. All theoretical assumptions differently focus on relations of space and identity. The study locates three periods of subcultural dynamics in Klaipeda. In 1991–1996 subcultures were subordinated to hegemonic youth category; pop culture and subcultures were not differentiated; the different styles were mixed in hybrid identities. In 1997–2002 subcultures leave public spaces and escapes from social control, what leads them to exploration and appropriation of new spaces for ritual performances. 2003–2010 are marked by subcultural differentiation, ideological purification of subcultural identity and seclusion of ritual spaces. Identified processes are discussed in a wider context of urban changes. In this issue of the journal is published only the first part of the study