At the recent Parallel Forum titled "Inter-Civilization Exchanges and Mutual Learning: Cultural Inheritance and Innovation," Su Bomin, Director of Dunhuang Academy, shared a bold roadmap to preserve one of the world’s most stunning cultural legacies.
Home to over 1,000 caves adorned with ancient murals and inscriptions, Dunhuang in Gansu province has long captivated travelers and scholars alike. Su highlighted the use of 3D laser scanning and AI-powered restoration to document fragile frescoes with unprecedented precision. "By building a digital twin of the caves," he explained, "we can study, restore, and share this heritage without risking further damage to the originals."
Beyond cutting-edge tech, community engagement lies at the heart of his strategy. Local artisans are being trained in traditional conservation techniques, while sustainable tourism initiatives limit daily visitor numbers and support eco-friendly practices. Data from pilot programs show a 25% reduction in foot traffic impact over the past year.
Looking ahead, Su invites global partners—from tech innovators to cultural organizations—to join forces in safeguarding Dunhuang for generations to come. Through shared knowledge and collaborative projects, he believes this millennia-old heritage can inspire a new era of cross-cultural creativity and understanding.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
