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Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Sustainable Inheritance Strategies of National Traditional Fine Arts Intangible Cultural Heritage in China

Author

Listed:
  • Zhiqiang Cai

    (Xiamen Institute of Arts and Crafts, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350000, China)

  • Keke Cai

    (Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong)

  • Tao Huang

    (Xiamen Institute of Arts and Crafts, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350000, China)

  • Ge Zhang

    (Xiamen Institute of Arts and Crafts, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350000, China)

  • Ruixi Chen

    (Xiamen Institute of Arts and Crafts, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350000, China)

Abstract

A total of 417 intangible cultural heritage objects (ICHOs) are intertwined with traditional Chinese art, showcasing China’s rich historical heritage and distinctive creative allure. However, ICHOs currently grapple with a significant succession quandary due to modernization endeavors and the impacts of globalization. Hence, this study scrutinizes the spatial distribution of ICHO projects and inheritors and examines methodologies for inheriting these 417 ICHOs, employing approaches such as the closest neighbor index, Moran’s I index, kernel density estimation, geographic concentration analysis, and imbalance index assessment. Research indicates that ICHOs exhibit a spatial aggregation pattern, yet there is no substantial spatial correlation observed in their distribution. The national distribution highlights two core density zones: Beijing and Shanghai. In China, ICHO programs display uneven distribution across various types, levels, regions, and cultural zones. Regarding the ethnic composition of projects and inheritors, ICHO projects predominantly focus on the Han ethnic group, with a scattering of minority representations. Minority ICHO projects and inheritors are concentrated in central and eastern areas, while Han ICHO projects and inheritors are concentrated in central and western regions. Among the 148 ICHO projects lacking inheritors, 203 have one inheritor, and only 66 have several inheritors. Shanghai serves as the core density zone for 269 ICHO projects with inheritors, while Beijing holds that status for 148 ICHO projects without inheritors. Out of the 148 ICHO projects lacking inheritors, 115 belong to the Han ethnic group, with 33 split among 16 different ethnic minorities, and 2 have no inheritors. These disparities underscore the uneven distribution of ICHO projects and the critical issue of inheritance. This study identified education, tourism, digital communication, incentivizing inheritors, and international cooperation as potential strategies for preserving ICHA. Moreover, a sustainable inheritance pathway integrating government, education, tourism, and media is imperative for the effective perpetuation of ICHOs’ legacy.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhiqiang Cai & Keke Cai & Tao Huang & Ge Zhang & Ruixi Chen, 2024. "Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Sustainable Inheritance Strategies of National Traditional Fine Arts Intangible Cultural Heritage in China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(11), pages 1-27, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:11:p:4488-:d:1401773
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jiacan Wang & Mo Chen & Hongyan Zhang & Fang Ye, 2023. "Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Yangtze River Basin: Its Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Influencing Factors," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(10), pages 1-14, May.
    2. Xiangqiang Li & Mengqi Yang & Liangfu Long & Muxing Liu & Haimeng Liu & Jingyi Liu, 2023. "Geographical Distribution and Influencing Factors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(4), pages 1-22, February.
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    5. Changqing Sun & Hong Chen & Ruihua Liao, 2021. "Research on Incentive Mechanism and Strategy Choice for Passing on Intangible Cultural Heritage from Masters to Apprentices," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(9), pages 1-13, May.
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    2. Yu Chen & Jingwen Zhao & Xinyi Zhao & Zeyi Wang & Zhe Xu & Shilin Li & Weishang Liu, 2025. "Study on the Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Intangible Cultural Heritage Along the Great Wall of Hebei Province," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-25, July.
    3. Yuttapong Khuenkhaew & Wanida Phromlah & Chinawat Chueasakhoo & Suchanart Singhapat, 2025. "Democracy in the Phutai Ethnic Group Community in Kalasin Province, Thailand," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(2), pages 1-13, January.
    4. Shiwen Lai & Qingfeng Zhang, 2025. "Exploring the Determinants of Users’ Intention to Use Augmented Reality in Craftsmanship-Oriented Intangible Cultural Heritage Games," SAGE Open, , vol. 15(3), pages 21582440251, July.

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