Experts discuss digital preservation of intangible cultural heritage in Shanghai

Experts and practitioners in the realm of intangible cultural heritage gathered at the Third Forum on Digital Communication and Innovation of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Shanghai on Saturday. The event, hosted by the Center for Cultural Innovation and Development from the Institute of Cultural and Creative Industry at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (USC-SJTU), in collaboration with the College of Fashion and Design of Donghua University and the Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Computing and Art of Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi'an, delved into the intersection of traditional heritage and cutting-edge technology.

At the forum, attendees engaged in interdisciplinary discussions on various facets of intangible cultural heritage, exploring themes such as intelligent communication, digital reproduction and aesthetic design. The convergence of expertise from both domestic and international researchers highlighted the evolving landscape where digital tools play a pivotal role in preserving and promoting cultural legacies.

Xue Ke, vice-dean of the USC-SJTU Institute of Cultural and Creative Industry, underscored the transformative potential of digital technologies in safeguarding and revitalizing traditional cultures. "Digital intelligence not only preserves the essence of our heritage but also infuses these treasures with newfound vitality and contemporary allure through innovative expressions," she remarked.

The forum also delved into the creative metamorphosis and forward-looking development of intangible cultural heritage, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that upholds cultural integrity while embracing technological advancements. Participants stressed the importance of achieving model reproduction while preserving cultural authenticity, cautioning against the dilution of cultural values in favor of technical expediency as artificial intelligence reshapes the communication paradigms of intangible heritage.

In addition to the main discussions, scholars and industry professionals engaged in detailed exchanges and cross-border dialogues at the sub-forums, exploring topics ranging from AI motion capture to paper-cutting algorithm modeling and the integration of smart tools in cultural tourism experiences.