Symbol Code – Drawing the memory
Summary
Through the author's research, it has been found that the non-material cultural heritage resources of China and even the world are in a fragmented state, lacking a complete system integration. Therefore, the author believes that achieving the integration and sharing of non-material cultural heritage resources is an important issue for the reasonable utilization of non-material cultural heritage resources in the future. The goal of this activity is to learn about ancient totems and symbols, explore traditional cultural skills through this interactive game, and consider the possibility of symbolically preserving them.
A brief introduction to Huizhou three carvings
The Hui sculpture is a traditional carving technique of Huizhou (non-Anhui style) style. The four unique works of Hui sculpture refers to the abbreviation of four folk carving techniques of Huizhou style including brick sculpture, stone sculpture, wood sculpture and bamboo sculpture. The four unique works of Hui sculpture are typical in She County, Yi County and Wuyuan County and their preservation is relatively good. Hui sculptures are mainly used for the decoration of houses, ancestral temples, temples, gardens, etc, as well as ancient furniture, screens, writing brush holders, fruit bowls and other craft carvings.
The video is pasted here.
Game Duration:
Each game session lasts for 20 minutes.
In the first ten minutes, players need to conceptualize a unique totem style based on their wishes.
In the next ten minutes, players will draw the totem or symbol they have designed on paper.
Gameplay:
This is an interactive game that combines sculpture with therapy. Players will take on the role of a sculptor, and each game session will have a specific non-material cultural theme, such as mythical creatures in folklore, totems in traditional rituals, heroes in ancient myths, etc. Players need to create based on the theme.
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The simpler the sculpture, the better, with the prerequisite being understanding.
Players are required to merge their wishes with traditional Chinese cultural patterns to design and transform them into unique wooden carved symbols. They will draw their designed totems or symbols on paper and provide a brief explanation.
Meanwhile, the author will provide tools and materials for players to experience the art of sculpture (as an optional activity due to time and technical constraints).
Reflection:
At the end of the game, players’ works will be showcased to other players, who will engage in discussions and learning based on the creativity, skills, and thematic relevance of the works. The author hopes to discuss whether the symbolization of the Huizhou Three Carvings at the end of the game is beneficial for the protection and inheritance of non-material cultural heritage.
Conclusion:
Through this game, players can experience the joy and challenges of sculpture creation in a short period. This game not only hones players’ creative skills but also promotes understanding and heritage of non-material culture.
Image source:
https://www.xuancheng.gov.cn/News/show/634463.html
https://www.gaoding.com/?hmsr=pc360-sem-home-ppc-gd-100000-sem&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=pc360
References:
Boswell, R., 2011. Challenges to sustaining intangible cultural heritage. Heritage & Society, 4(1), pp.119-124.
Heritage, U.I.C., 2019. What is intangible cultural heritage [online]
Hou, Y., Kenderdine, S., Picca, D., Egloff, M. and Adamou, A., 2022. Digitizing intangible cultural heritage embodied: State of the art. Journal on Computing and Cultural Heritage (JOCCH), 15(3), pp.1-20.
Yang, A., 2021. Digital protection mode of intangible cultural heritage in China. International Journal of Frontiers in Sociology, 3(16), pp.104-113.
