Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in preserving cultural identity, promoting economic development, and facilitating cultural exchange, despite some skepticism regarding its practical value in modern life [1][2][3][4][5][6][7] Group 1: Cultural Significance - ICH serves as a historical memory and a source of cultural recreation, with over 100,000 representative projects in China that encapsulate collective memory and wisdom [2] - Examples such as the Dragon Boat Festival and the Karez irrigation technique illustrate how ICH maintains relevance and contributes to modern practices and engineering solutions [2] Group 2: Economic Impact - There are over 12,900 ICH workshops across 2,138 county-level administrative regions, including 693 poverty-stricken counties, creating employment for over 1.2 million people [3] - ICH not only enriches cultural life but also drives economic growth by integrating traditional crafts into modern markets, thus enhancing both financial and intellectual wealth in rural areas [3] Group 3: Cultural Confidence and Exchange - ICH acts as a universal language for civilization exchange, with symbols like the Luban lock representing Chinese wisdom and fostering international understanding [4] - Many ICH elements, such as dragon and lion dances, serve as cultural symbols for overseas Chinese, reinforcing cultural identity and connections [4] Group 4: Innovative Preservation - The preservation of ICH should focus on creative transformation and innovative development, integrating traditional skills into contemporary life rather than merely preserving them [5][6] - New approaches include reimagining traditional crafts for modern applications, such as using oil paper umbrellas as decorative lampshades and developing eco-friendly materials inspired by traditional lacquer techniques [6] Group 5: Growing Popularity and Future Outlook - The rising interest in cultural heritage, driven by material abundance and cultural awareness, highlights the potential of ICH as a solution database for contemporary needs [7] - The "14th Five-Year Plan" suggests a systematic approach to protecting and promoting traditional culture, indicating a shift in focus from questioning the necessity of ICH to envisioning its future [7]

Core Insights - The article highlights the resurgence of Fuzhou cork painting, a unique folk art from Fuzhou, China, which has gained popularity due to its association with contemporary fashion trends, particularly after being featured by actress Zhao Liying [1][2]. Industry Overview - Fuzhou cork painting, also known as soft cork painting, is a traditional craft that utilizes imported cork from countries like Spain and Portugal, crafted into intricate designs depicting nature and architecture [1][2]. - The craft was first created in 1914, inspired by a European Christmas card, and has evolved into a recognized art form with significant historical value [2]. - The peak period for cork painting was from the 1960s to the 1980s, during which it was highly regarded and even presented as a national gift [2]. Current Trends - The craft is currently facing challenges in terms of inheritance and market demand, with a significant decline in the number of practitioners, dropping to fewer than a hundred [3]. - Young artists and practitioners are beginning to integrate cork painting into modern products such as accessories and home decor, helping to revitalize interest in the craft [3][4]. - The establishment of workshops and educational programs by experienced artisans aims to attract new talent and ensure the continuation of this traditional art form [3]. Cultural Significance - Cork painting is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in China, emphasizing its importance in preserving cultural identity [2][3]. - The art form not only represents a unique craftsmanship but also serves as a medium for cultural transmission and community engagement [4].