Conference Proceedings Series 2025 (Vol.3, No.11) | November 2025
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Edited by Ms. Galina Berjozkina Dr. Yuriy Yu Shvet IIARP International Conference In association with Abstract Proceedings Series (Vol.3, No.11 | November 2025)
IIARP CONFERENCE & PUBLICATIONS CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS SERIES 3.11 Conference Proceedings & Abstracts Volume 3, Number 11 October 2025 ISSN 31173314 Organized by International Institute of Academic Research & Publications In association with Glovento Conference Supported by ConferenceAlert360.com
Disclaimer The opinions expressed in articles, studies, and other contributions to this publication are solely those of the authors. The publication of these materials does not imply endorsement by the IIARP Conference & Publications. Official website of the conference www.iiarp.org Thank You. Copyright © 2025 IIARP Conference. All rights are reserved. Permission is granted for personal and educational use only. Commercial use, hiring, or lending is prohibited. No part of this publication may be reproduced, reprinted, translated, stored, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher and authors have made every effort to ensure that the information and recommendations contained herein are accurate and consistent with generally accepted standards at the time of publication. The individual essays remain the intellectual property of their respective authors. N.B.-No part of this book can be reproduced in any form or by any means without the publisher's prior written permission. Corporate Address International Institute of Academic Research & Publications IIARP Glovento Conference Private Limited® Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, 751019 www.iiarp.org | inf[email protected]
Preface IIARP is a forum dedicated to advancing society through research. A primary goal and feature is to convene scholars, professionals, and government agencies to exchange and share their experiences and research findings on the challenges and solutions for societal development. More importantly, this conference will serve as a platform to disseminate research findings and catalyze innovation. IIARP has proven to be a critical factor in the transformation of the e-learning field. Through our well-established conferences, opportunities for quality learning, and strategies for individual and institutional success, we have contributed to this rapid growth. About International Institute of Academic Research & Publications IIARP The International Institute of Academic Research & Publications IIARP is an international academic association under Glovento Conference Private Limited®. Dedicated to promoting cooperation among scientists, defending scientific freedom, encouraging scientific responsibility and education, and advancing science outreach for the betterment of humanity, it is one of the world's largest and most prestigious general scientific societies. Objective of IIARP ❖ To provide a world-class platform for researchers to share their research findings through international and national conferences. ❖ To integrate the research findings from the conference into classroom instruction for the benefit of students. ❖ To encourage researchers to identify significant research challenges in the fields of science, engineering, technology, and management. ❖ To facilitate the dissemination of research findings through journal publications, conference proceedings, or books. ❖ To provide researchers with feedback on their work to enhance its relevance and impact through collaborative efforts.
Conference Committee Program Chair: Dr. Bilal Khalid, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology, Thailand Dr Shakir Ullah, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China Ms. Galina Berjozkina City Unity College Nicosia, Cyprus Chairman, IIARP Mail: [email protected] International Advisory Members ● Dr. Moo Sung Kim, College of Business, Zayed University, Dubai UAE ● Dr. MahboubehTaghizadeh, Iran University of Science and Technology, Iran ● Prof.Dr.Wen-Lin Yang, National University of Tainan, Taiwan ● Dr. Pankaj Thakur, Arba Minch University, Ethiopia ● Dr. Hoang Anh Tuan, Ho Chi Minh city University of Transport, Vietnam ● Dr. Dodo YakubAminu, Dept. of Architecture, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia ● Dr. Sunny Joseph, Dept. of Mathematics, K. E. College, Kottayam, Kerala, India ● Dr. PoonamVyas, J K Lakshmipat University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India ● Dr. Ahmed A. Elngar, Beni-Suef University, Egypt ● Dr. Ahmad R. AlBattat, Management and Science University, Shah Alam, Malaysia ● Dr. ArunachalamKalirajan, Dept. of. Education of DMI St. Eugene University, Zambia ● Mr. YagyanathRimal, School of Engineering, Pokhara University, Nepal ● Dr. NiharRanjan Mishra, Dept. of Social Sciences & Humanities, NIT, India ● Prof.Dr.Aries Heru Prasetyo, PPM School of Management, Jakarta Pusat, Indonesia ● Prof.Dr. NarasimhaiahGorla, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
TABLE OF CONTENTS Sl No TITLES AND AUTHORS Page No. 01 Metaverse-Driven Low-Carbon Tourism for Enhancing Quality Tourism under New Circumstances: A Case Study of Ranong Province Pijitra Jomsri, Dulyawit Prangchumpol, Kittiya Poonsilp, Tatsanawalai Utarasakul, Yananda Siraphatthada, Duangkamol Thitivesa 1 02 AIPowered Chatbot and Course Recommendation System for Blue-Collar Workers Abhishek Jaden Vethanayagam 2 03 Adaptation and Validation of the Indonesian Version of the Online Histrionic Personality Scale Ahmad Rusdi, Benidha RoosFeri Nisa, Ade MiranisaFikri, Anggoro Danang Setiaji 3 04 The Role of Quality of Work Life, Perceived Organizational Support, Career Development in Preventing Quiet Quitting Among Gen Z and Millennials Dinda FriskaEndrasuari, Nadia Putri Tabina, Nida KharidaAufa Luthfiani, Ira Setyawati 4 05 Exploring the Impact of Islamic Religiosity on Materialism among Indonesian Students: The Mediating Effect of Agreeableness Fuad Nashori, Raden Rachmy Diana, Infanti Wisnu Wardani, Annisaa Miranty Nurendra, Dwi Yan Nugraha 5 06 Scoping Review: Predictors, Mediators, and Moderators of Problematic Social Media Use Among Adolescent Fitri Ayu Kusumaningrum, Sri Lestari, Lusi Nuryanti 6 07 Insurance Company Bankruptcy Prediction: A Comparison of Machine Learning, Neural Network, and Logistic Regression Approaches Tri Gunarsih, Rodhiyah Mardhiyah, Fran Sayekti 7 08 Generative AI Usage Determinants and Usage Behavior of BPO Workers as Mediated by Behavioral Intent and Moderated by Demographics: A Basis for a Proposed Model Janet I. Ramos, Chereʼ C. Yturralde 8 09 Determinants of Islamic Economics Studentsʼ Intention to Choose Islamic Banks: The Roles of Literacy, Religiosity, and Social Influence Rayhan Dimas Harinasmara, Tulasmi 9 10 Digital Consumerism and Wastage Behavior: Rethinking Moderation as Ethical Behavior Control Zein Muttaqin 10
11 Evaluating the Effectiveness of Digital Payment Systems in Enhancing Cash Waqf Fundraising at Solo Peduli Foundation, Surakarta, Indonesia Hafizh Prasetyo Adi, Siti Achiria 11 12 Assessing the Impact of Productive Zakat on the Material and Spiritual Welfare of Muallaf in Yogyakarta, Indonesia Fihayatin Nufus, Rakhmawati 12 13 Digital Marketing Strategies and Their Impact on MSME Development in the Prambanan Temple Tourism Area, Yogyakarta, Indonesia Julio Soni Kurnia, Muhammad Iqbal 13 14 Integrating Sharia Principles into Sustainable Marketing Enterprise: A Case Study of Sinatria Farmʼs Sheep Farming Business Mukhamad Hanif Khoerul Anam, Junaidi Safitri 14 15 Maqāṣid al-Sharī‘ah and Sustainable Development Goals: Evaluating BAZNAS Slemanʼs Integrated Zakat Programs for Community Welfare Muhammad Mufaridz Putra Nurzaen, Soya Sobaya 15 16 State Patronage, Community Piety, and the Political Economy of Mosque Funding in Indonesiaʼs New Order Era Rizqi Anfanni Fahmi 16 17 Trends and Patterns in Muamalah Research: A Bibliometric Study of Scopus-Indexed Publications 19962025 Sofwan Hadikusuma 17 18 Decoding Neurogenetic Profiling and Corporate Panchayat Governance: Legal and Psychological Framework for MNCs in Chennai Surya S, Dr. Asha Sundaram, Dr. Thangamayan 18 19 Supply Chain Resilience Assessment SCRA A Methodology for Analyzing and Optimizing the Resilience of Global Supply Chains Using the Example of Medical Device Manufacturing M. P. Roessler, C. Ziegler, C. Koch 19 20 Ideology in Fiction: Unpacking Pancasilaʼs Principles and Grassroots Democracy in Orang-Orang Proyek Tengku Hamid Darmawan 21 21 Integrated Project-Based Learning to Enhance Learnersʼ Competencies in Community Problem-Solving via a Social Engineering Approach in Muban Chombueng Rajabhat University, Ratchaburi, Thailand Sutthirak Uansiri 22
22 Unraveling the Cascading Effects: Banking Frauds, Performance, and Exchange Rate Volatility Dynamics Binata Rani Sen, Prof. Dr. Jiang Minghui 23 23 The Social Engineer as a Catalyst for Community Development: A Case Study on Promoting Elderly Quality of Life Choat Inthawongse, Niparat Boogun, Nongrat Issaro, Peangporn Banyaphad 24 24 Developing a Short-Term, Experiential Learning Curriculum to Foster Social Engineer Skills in University Students: A Case Study from Muban Chom Bueng Rajabhat University Noppadol Thumchuea, Anurak Thanyacharoen, Nongrat Issaro, Peangporn Banyaphad 25 25 Community-Based Music Creation as Learning Innovation: The Kluai Tanao Si Song Project for Cultural Sustainability in Thailand Traitrung Ploymong, Noppadol Thumchuea 26 26 Clustering and Modeling Wedge Failure of Late Proterozoic Igneous Rock Slopes Northeast of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Mohammed A. M. Alghamdi 27 27 Composite Evolution in Commercial Airliners: From Traditional Fibers to Sustainable Cork-Based Systems Melih Cemal Kushan, Canatay Battal Kushan 28 28 Biodegradation of Poly-Paper Coffee Cups by Tenebrio molitor and Zophobas morio Francisco Palazzo, Victoria Shekerdemian, Karla Soto, Josefina María Echazú, Pamela Romina Bernabeu, Federico Leonel Parra 30 29 Binaural Audio Generation Using Diffusion Model Conditioned on Visual and Positional Information of the Sound Sources Haruka Okano, Ryohei Orihara, Yasuyuki Tahara, Yuichi Sei 31 30 Proposal of a Human-Like Debate Framework Based on LLM Agents with Personality Traits Akikazu Kimura, Ken Fukuda, Yasuyuki Tahara, Yuichi Sei 32 31 Addressing Prompt Injection via Dataset Augmentation through Iterative Interactions among LLM Agents Go Sato, Shusaku Egami, Yasuyuki Tahara, Yuichi Sei 33 32 Efficiency of Earthworms Oligochaeta, Lumbricidae) for Manure Processing Mzia Kokhia, Oleg Gorgadze, Eka Tskitishvili, Madona Kuchava, David Nebieridze, Nino Kiknadze 34
❖❖❖ 33 Exploring Pre-service Teachersʼ AI Competencies: Insights from UNESCOʼs Framework Yungwei Hao 35 34 Exploration of Collaboration between Local and Foreign English Teachers in Taiwan Hao, Yungwei 36 35 Guihai Steles Forest, China: The Reliving the Past of the Ancient Guihai Steles Forest and Changing the Meaning of the Perspective of Retro Tourism ChunGan, Prathabjai Suwanthada 37 36 Influence of Marketing Strategies on Consumer Purchase Intention for Wogan Oranges in Nanning, China LiuManting, Chaiyawit Muangmee, Tatchapong Sattabut, Nusanee Meekaewkunchorn 48 37 A Study on the Flying Apsaras Designs of the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang during the Northern Wei Dynasty Shi Wenjun, Somkhit Sukerb, Li Yingfeng 55 38 Visual Innovation and Cultural Preservation: Bridging Miao-Nang Heritage with Contemporary Design Pu Lingqiu, Supawadee Juysukha 64 39 Innovative Design Approaches for Huashan Rock Art: Cultural Symbol Transformation in Contemporary Product Design ShengHong Wen, Noppadon angwalpetch 77
Exploring the Impact of Islamic Religiosity on Materialism among Indonesian Students: The Mediating Effect of Agreeableness 1Fuad Nashori, 2Raden Rachmy Diana, 3Infanti Wisnu Wardani, 4Annisaa Miranty Nurendra, 5Dwi Yan Nugraha 1,4,5Department of of Psychology, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 2Department of Psychology, Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Kalijaga, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 3Department of Psychology, Universitas Bina Bangsa, Banten, Indonesia AbstractThis study aimed to determine the influence of religiosity on materialism in Indonesian students, with agreeableness as a mediating variable. The sample consisted of 426 active students from several universities in Indonesia, selected through purposive sampling. The measurement instruments used were the Muslim Daily Religiosity Assessment MUDRAS, the Material Value Scale MVS, and the agreeableness subscale of the Big Five Personality Inventory BFI. The first hypothesis proposed that Islamic religiosity influenced materialism among students. Meanwhile, the second hypothesis stated that religiosity influenced students' materialism through the mediating role of agreeableness. The data obtained were analyzed using Hayesʼ bootstrapping analysis. The results showed that Islamic religiosity had a direct effect on materialism. The relationship between religiosity and materialism may also be explained through the indirect effect, where religiosity influences the level of agreeableness, which ultimately influences the level of materialism among students. Keywords: Materialism, Islamic Religiosity, Agreeableness Trait, University Students, Indonesia. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 5
Scoping Review: Predictors, Mediators, and Moderators of Problematic Social Media Use Among Adolescent 1Fitri Ayu Kusumaningrum, 2Sri Lestari, 3Lusi Nuryanti 1Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 1,2,3Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia AbstractProblematic social media use PSMU among adolescents is a pressing concern with far-reaching implications, particularly regarding its detrimental effects on mental health. Although empirical research and numerous literature reviews have increasingly focused on PSMU, a comprehensive understanding of its predictors, mediators, and moderators remains elusive. This scoping review aims to systematically map the variables that predict, mediate, and moderate PSMU in adolescents. This review adheres to the Arksey and O'Malley framework and follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, Springer, PubMed, ProQuest, EBSCO, Nature, ScienceDirect, Taylor & Francis, Sage, and Wiley. The search terms employed were "problematic social media use," "adolescents," "youth," "senior high school," and "junior high school." Inclusion criteria encompassed empirical studies employing quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods research designs; longitudinal investigations; studies with adolescent participants; and articles published in English with full-text availability. Data synthesis tables were developed, and a thematic analysis was applied to the extracted data. A total of 44 articles met the inclusion criteria. These articles were categorized according to their focus on predictors, mediators, or moderators of PSMU. The results were further organized into thematic groups, including risk factors, protective factors, precipitating factors, and factors related to personal and demographic characteristics, family, peers, school, and social environments. The body of research on PSMU is expanding rapidly, making a scoping review a timely and valuable undertaking. By systematically mapping the existing literature, this review seeks to establish a foundational framework that informs future research and facilitates the integration of existing knowledge into subsequent empirical studies. Keywords: Adolescent, Scoping Review, Predictor, Mediator, Moderator, Problematic Social Media Use. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 6
Insurance Company Bankruptcy Prediction: A Comparison of Machine Learning, Neural Network, and Logistic Regression Approaches 1Tri Gunarsih, 2Rodhiyah Mardhiyah, 3Fran Sayekti 1,2,3Universitas Teknologi Yogyakarta, Indonesia AbstractInsurance collects and manages public funds on a large scale. The collected premiums are invested in various instruments, ranging from the money market to the capital market, with the hope that the returns will be able to cover all claim obligations, both claims for compensation, health, death, and retirement benefits. However, wrong investment decisions or weak governance can erode performance, trigger liquidity pressures, and ultimately push companies towards financial difficulties and even bankruptcy. Therefore, the development of early warning signals is an urgent need so that failures can be anticipated before they occur. This study aims to test bankruptcy prediction models in insurance companies so that stakeholders, including the public, can assess risks early and take appropriate mitigation steps. The study used a quantitative approach with secondary data that included financial and non-financial indicators. Three modeling approaches were compared using RapidMiner Studio: Multinomial Regression Logistic MRL, Neural Network NN, and multiple Machine Learning ML algorithms. The results showed an accuracy of 75.21% for MRL and 65.81% for NN. Of the nine ML variants tested, Deep Learning recorded the highest accuracy of 63.2%. These findings suggest that, in the context and data used, parametric models such as MRL still excel in stability and clarity of interpretation compared to network-based approaches and deep learning. Robustness evaluation with alternative software, more systematic feature selection, and cross-period and cross-country testing are needed to assess external validity and improve the reliability of the model as an early warning system for the insurance industry. Keywords: Insurance Company, Bankruptcy Prediction, Machine Learning, Neural Network, And Logistic Regression Approaches. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 7
Generative AI Usage Determinants and Usage Behavior of BPO Workers as Mediated by Behavioral Intent and Moderated by Demographics: A Basis for a Proposed Model 1Janet I. Ramos, 2Chereʼ C. Yturralde Adviser) 1,2Angeles University Foundation, Philippines AbstractGenerative Artificial Intelligence GenAI technology usage has become a critical engine for economic growth within the Philippine BPO industry, but the usage rate of only 46% spotlights the lost opportunities from technology investments. Understanding the factors that drive workersʼ technology usage behavior will help bridge the gap to optimally integrate Gen AI into daily tasks and boost the industryʼs growth and competitive advantage. Grounded in the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology UTAUT framework, this study employed a quantitative cross-sectional design to investigate GenAI Usage Behavior among BPO frontline agents or team members. Specifically, this study investigated the mediation effect of Behavioral intent on the relationship between the Gen AI usage determinants Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, and Facilitating Condition) and Usage Behavior; the moderating effect of age, gender, and work experience on the relationship between Gen AI usage determinants and workersʼ behavioral intention; and proposed a refined structural model that delineates relationships influencing workersʼ Gen AI Usage behavior. Insights from 1000 respondents across selected large BPO companies, analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling PLSSEM, revealed that Behavioral Intent fully mediates the effects of Performance Expectancy and Effort Expectancy on Usage Behavior. Conversely, Social Influence exhibited partial mediation with a significant direct effect, while Facilitating Conditions primarily functioned as a foundational non-intentional prerequisite for use. Although major demographic factors were not significant moderators, the interaction between gender and Effort Expectancy significantly influenced Behavioral Intent. The resultant refined model underscores the critical need for strategies that leverage Performance Expectancy (the key driver of intention) and Social Influence (the strongest direct trigger of usage). These results underscore the critical need for targeted strategies, enhanced training programs emphasizing ease of use, leadership, and peer endorsement of benefits, and thoughtful infrastructure investment for a seamless GenAI integration. By addressing these factors, the study contributes to the advancement of the framework and presents practical solutions for organizations to navigate current challenges and optimally adopt the new technology. Keywords: Behavioral Intent, Business Process Outsourcing, Effort Expectancy, Facilitating Conditions, Generative Artificial Intelligence, Performance Expectancy, Technology Use, Usage Behavior, UTAUT, PLSSEM. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 8
Determinants of Islamic Economics Studentsʼ Intention to Choose Islamic Banks: The Roles of Literacy, Religiosity, and Social Influence 1Rayhan Dimas Harinasmara, 2Tulasmi 1,2Department of Islamic Economics, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia AbstractThis study investigates the persistent gap between theoretical understanding and practical adoption of Islamic banking among Indonesiaʼs Muslim population, focusing specifically on Islamic Economics students at Universitas Islam Indonesia. Although Islamic banking has expanded steadily, it represents only a small share of the national financial market, suggesting limited public engagement even within religiously informed groups. The research aims to analyze how financial literacy, religiosity, attitude, and subjective norms influence studentsʼ intention to choose Islamic banks, using the Theory of Reasoned Action as the analytical framework. A quantitative design was employed through an online questionnaire distributed to 212 students of the Islamic Economics Department. Measurement and structural equation modeling were conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling PLSSEM to test reliability, validity, and causal relationships among variables. The empirical results reveal that all four variables significantly and positively affect studentsʼ interest in choosing Islamic banks, with subjective norms emerging as the strongest predictor (β = 0.367, p < 0.001, followed by financial literacy (β = 0.299, attitude (β = 0.262, and religiosity (β = 0.192. The model explains 45.8 percent of the variance in behavioral intention, and overall fit indices SRMR = 0.040; NFI = 0.865 confirm robustness. These findings indicate that social influence plays a more decisive role than personal religiosity in shaping studentsʼ financial choices, highlighting the continuing dominance of normative and peer-driven behavior even within a population highly exposed to Islamic economic principles. The results also underscore that understanding Islamic financial principles and having positive attitudes toward Sharia compliance are necessary but insufficient without strong social endorsement and credible financial literacy. In conclusion, the research demonstrates that the integration of financial literacy and religiosity into the Theory of Reasoned Action successfully explains studentsʼ intentions toward Islamic bank selection. The findings provide practical implications for Islamic banking marketing strategies, educational institutions, and policymakers seeking to strengthen Sharia financial inclusion by targeting peer influence and literacy-based interventions among young Muslim consumers. Keywords: Attitude, Financial Literacy, Islamic Banking, Religiosity, Subjective Norms, Theory of Reasoned Action. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 9
Digital Consumerism and Wastage Behavior: Rethinking Moderation as Ethical Behavior Control 1Zein Muttaqin 1Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 1International Islamic University of Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia AbstractIn the digital age, consumerism has transcended traditional boundaries, leading to unprecedented levels of consumption and subsequent wastage. Especially with the pervasive nature of digital consumerism, driven by the ease of online shopping and the constant bombardment of targeted advertisements, it often leads to excessive purchasing and waste. UNEP predicted that by 2050, the production of municipal solid waste will increase by 3.8 billion tons, where the largest contribution of waste arises from cultural practices, economic conditions, and the lack of comprehensive legislation specifically targeting waste reduction. This study aims to explore how moderation can be implemented to curb wastage behavior in digital consumerism by proposing a framework for ethical consumption that balances the benefits of digital consumerism with environmental sustainability. This study is a library research based on various studies that specifically discuss waste behavior in the digital market and transactions, while enlarging the analysis by employing moderation as the ethical construct that matters to control the behavior of consumers. The results of the study include the identification of key drivers of excessive consumption and wastage in digital environments, as well as the effectiveness of moderation strategies in promoting ethical consumer behavior. The findings are anticipated to offer practical recommendations for consumers, businesses, and policymakers to foster a culture of responsible consumption. By rethinking moderation as a tool for ethical behavior control, this research seeks to contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable consumption and the role of digital platforms in shaping consumer habits by introducing the Moderation-Based Ethical Consumption Framework MECF that repositions moderation as the central construct of consumer ethics in digital environments. Keywords: Waste, Islamic Economic, Digital Consumerism, Moderation, Ethical Consumption. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 10
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Digital Payment Systems in Enhancing Cash Waqf Fundraising at Solo Peduli Foundation, Surakarta, Indonesia 1Hafizh Prasetyo Adi, 2Siti Achiria 1,2Department of Islamic Economics, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia AbstractThis study investigates the effectiveness of digital payment systems in enhancing cash waqf fundraising at the Solo Peduli Foundation in Surakarta, Indonesia. The research is driven by the growing integration of digital finance into philanthropic activities and the increasing national interest in optimizing cash waqf as a sustainable source of social welfare. The primary objective is to examine whether digital payment platforms—such as the organizationʼs official website, QRIS, kitabisa.com, and solusiwakaf.com—effectively improve fundraising outcomes compared to traditional cash-based contributions. Employing a qualitative descriptive case study design, the research collected data through interviews, observations, and documentation from seven purposively selected informants, including management, staff, and donors who utilized digital channels. The analysis applied effectiveness indicators encompassing goal alignment, organizational integration, adaptability to a digital environment, and efficiency in time and labor use. The findings reveal that digital payment systems significantly facilitate the fundraising process by increasing accessibility, efficiency, and transparency, thereby reducing administrative burdens and operational costs. Nevertheless, digital fundraising has yet to surpass conventional cash donations: from 2022 to August 2024, digital collections amounted to Rp 2.35 billion, slightly below cash contributions of Rp 2.38 billion. Effectiveness ratios reached 57.4% in 2022, 57.6% in 2023, and 59% in early 2024, categorized as “not yet effectiveˮ relative to institutional targets. The study attributes this limitation primarily to ambitious target setting rather than to shortcomings in digital implementation. Despite the quantitative gap, digital contributions demonstrate a consistent upward trend and lower volatility, indicating growing donor trust and digital literacy. These results highlight the transitional phase in donor behavior, where traditional practices remain prevalent while digital participation steadily expands. The study concludes that digital payment systems are a practical and increasingly influential tool for waqf fundraising, offering convenience and long-term potential to enhance sustainability in Islamic philanthropy. It recommends continuous donor education, trust-building, and strategic integration of technology to fully realize the potential of digital fundraising. The findings contribute empirically to the literature on waqf digitalization by providing institution-specific data, a three-year comparative analysis, and a practical framework for measuring fundraising effectiveness in the digital era. Keywords: Cash Waqf, Digital Fundraising, Digital Payment Systems, Fundraising Effectiveness, Islamic Philanthropy, Solo Peduli Foundation. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 11
Assessing the Impact of Productive Zakat on the Material and Spiritual Welfare of Muallaf in Yogyakarta, Indonesia 1Fihayatin Nufus, 2Rakhmawati 1,2Department of Islamic Economics, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia AbstractThis study investigates the impact of productive zakat distributed by the National Zakat Board BAZNAS of Yogyakarta on the material and spiritual welfare of muallaf (new Muslim converts). Rooted in the Qurʼanic framework of asnaf Qurʼan 960 and employing the Center of Islamic Business and Economic Studies CIBEST model, the research aims to assess whether productive zakat programs that combine financial capital with religious mentoring can enhance both economic independence and spiritual development. Using a descriptive-quantitative method, data were collected from 25 muallaf beneficiaries through questionnaires and analyzed using the CIBEST index, which categorizes households into four welfare quadrants based on income and religiosity. The results demonstrate a significant improvement in both material and spiritual welfare after participation in the program. Average monthly income increased from Rp 1,394,000 to Rp 1,710,000, and the number of households above the material poverty line rose from six to twelve. The mean spiritual welfare index also improved from 3.78 to 4.14, with no respondents remaining in the spiritually poor category. The CIBEST welfare index increased from 0.20 to 0.48, while the material poverty index declined from 0.76 to 0.52, and spiritual poverty fell to zero. These findings reveal that the combination of productive zakat, training, and religious guidance contributes to sustainable empowerment, enabling muallaf to move from dependency toward self-reliance and stronger faith practice. The study concludes that productive zakat is not merely an economic aid but an integrated tool for socio-religious transformation, promoting inclusive welfare and spiritual resilience among new Muslims. Its empirical application of the CIBEST model to the muallaf group expands current zakat impact assessment frameworks and offers actionable insights for policymakers and zakat institutions seeking to balance material empowerment with faith-based well-being. Keywords: CIBEST Model, Empowerment, Muallaf, Productive Zakat, Spiritual Welfare, Yogyakarta. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 12
Digital Marketing Strategies and Their Impact on MSME Development in the Prambanan Temple Tourism Area, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 1Julio Soni Kurnia, 2Muhammad Iqbal 1,2Department of Islamic Economics, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia AbstractThis study investigates how digital marketing strategies contribute to the development and competitiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises MSMEs operating around the Prambanan Temple tourism area in Indonesia. The research was motivated by the rapid expansion of digital technology and social media adoption among Indonesian MSMEs, alongside persistent challenges of limited human resource capacity, market access, and traditional marketing dependence. The study aims to analyze the implementation of digital marketing practices and their effectiveness in improving MSME performance, visibility, and sustainability within a heritage-based tourism economy. Employing a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, direct observations, and documentation involving MSME owners who actively use digital platforms such as Instagram, WhatsApp Business, TikTok, and Google Business Profile. The data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model, which includes data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing to identify implementation patterns and their impacts. The findings reveal that MSMEs have adopted a range of digital marketing strategies that significantly enhance promotional reach, customer engagement, and sales growth while reducing dependence on costly conventional advertising. Successful enterprises demonstrated consistent use of social media content, customer interaction through messaging applications, and collaborations with influencers and online marketplaces. However, barriers such as unstable internet connectivity, limited digital literacy, and logistical constraints still hinder optimal utilization. The analysis also shows that digital marketing not only increases revenue but also strengthens brand identity and community-based networks, which are vital in a tourism-driven economy. MSMEs that integrate storytelling and local cultural values into digital content tend to build stronger customer loyalty and distinguish their brands from competitors. Overall, the study concludes that digital marketing is a strategic tool for empowering MSMEs in heritage tourism areas, offering measurable advantages in market expansion, customer relationship building, and long-term business resilience. These findings have practical implications for policymakers, business associations, and educators seeking to design targeted training programs, digital infrastructure improvements, and inclusive marketing ecosystems to foster sustainable MSME development in Indonesiaʼs tourism sector. Keywords: Digital Marketing, MSME Development, Prambanan Tourism, Small Business, Social Media, Sustainable Entrepreneurship. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 13
Integrating Sharia Principles into Sustainable Marketing Enterprise: A Case Study of Sinatria Farmʼs Sheep Farming Business 1Mukhamad Hanif Khoerul Anam, 2Junaidi Safitri 1,2Department of Islamic Economics, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia AbstractThe livestock sector presents substantial economic potential, particularly in sheep farming, where rising consumer demand requires both sustainable and ethically grounded business strategies. This study aims to explore how Sinatria Farm applies the Sustainable Marketing Enterprise SME model in alignment with Islamic economic principles. The research seeks to uncover how sustainability practices and Sharia-compliant values are integrated to strengthen business competitiveness while maintaining ethical and social responsibility. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the study collects data through structured interviews with Sinatria Farmʼs management, direct field observations, and document analysis. Data are analyzed using the Miles and Huberman framework, which includes data collection, reduction, display, and conclusion drawing, alongside triangulation techniques to ensure data validity. The findings reveal that Sinatria Farm effectively applies the SME model by incorporating Sharia-based ethical values, such as transparency, fairness, and environmental stewardship, into daily operations and marketing practices. Although Islamic principles are not explicitly stated in corporate communication, they are embedded in the companyʼs practices, including profit-sharing, employee welfare, and community-oriented production systems. These implicit integrations reflect the Qurʼanic ethos of rahmatanlil ‘alamin (mercy for all creation), balancing profitability and social responsibility. The study further indicates that sustainable marketing under Islamic guidance enhances brand trust and stakeholder loyalty, supporting long-term business resilience. In conclusion, the integration of Sharia principles within the SME framework at Sinatria Farm demonstrates that sustainability and Islamic ethics can coexist to promote economic growth rooted in moral responsibility. This research contributes to the development of Islamic business and marketing studies by presenting a practical model of sustainable entrepreneurship consistent with maqasid al-sharia and offers valuable insights for Muslim entrepreneurs seeking to harmonize business sustainability with spiritual and ethical imperatives. Keywords: Islamic Economics, Marketing Ethics, Sharia Principles, Sheep Farming, Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Sustainable Marketing Enterprise. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 14
Ideology in Fiction: Unpacking Pancasilaʼs Principles and Grassroots Democracy in Orang-Orang Proyek Tengku Hamid Darmawan School Of Humanities Universiti Sains Malaysia AbstractThis paper employs a Pancasila-driven literary criticism to analyze Orang-Orang Proyek 2002 by Ahmad Tohari, exploring how Indonesiaʼs five foundational principles—Belief in One God, Just and Civilized Humanity, Unity of Indonesia, Democracy through Deliberation, and Social Justice for All—are articulated, contested, and reimagined in a single narrative. Set in rural West Java during a government infrastructure project, the novel follows villagers, laborers, and engineers navigating power struggles, corruption, and communal problem-solving. Sila 1 emerges in depictions of religious devotion as a source of moral guidance amid socio-economic hardship. Sila 2 is examined through acts of compassion and the ethical dilemmas faced by workers confronting injustice. Sila 3 surfaces in the collaboration between people of different ethnic and regional backgrounds, reflecting both solidarity and latent tensions. Sila 4 is most prominent, as the villagers engage in grassroots musyawarah (deliberation) to resolve wage disputes and defend their rights, contrasted with top-down decisions by bureaucrats that hollow out democratic ideals. Sila 5 is present in the critique of systemic inequality, where economic exploitation and political patronage undermine equitable welfare. Using qualitative textual analysis informed by cultural materialism and ideological criticism, the study maps each sila to moments of support, violation, and critique within the story. Findings reveal that Orang-Orang Proyek portrays Pancasila not as a static doctrine but as a living practice shaped by everyday negotiation, exposing the gap between state rhetoric and community realities. This approach highlights Tohariʼs work as both a celebration of grassroots democratic culture and a critique of its vulnerability to institutional corruption. Keywords: Pancasila, Orang-Orang Proyek, Ahmad Tohari, Ideological Criticism, Indonesian Literature, Cultural Materialism. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 21
Integrated Project-Based Learning to Enhance Learnersʼ Competencies in Community Problem-Solving via a Social Engineering Approach in Muban Chombueng Rajabhat University, Ratchaburi, Thailand Sutthirak Uansiri Faculty of Science and Technology, Muban Chombueng Rajabhat University, Ratchaburi, Thailand AbstractThis research aimed to 1 develop a project-based learning model that integrates social engineering processes for community problem solving, 2 enhance learners' competence in analytical thinking, innovation design, and community collaboration, and 3 create innovations or development approaches for silk and mulberry products that meet market needs and are sustainable. The target group consisted of 30 students and 10 members of the mulberry and silk farming community enterprise group in Tha Khoi Subdistrict, Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi Province. Research and Development R&D was conducted through the integration of Project-Based Learning PjBL and the Social Engineering Process, which consists of 5 steps: community analysis, problem diagnosis, innovation design, collaborative action, and sustainability evaluation and extension using 5 social engineering tools: Fa Prathan, Life Clock, Development Timeline, Process Timeline, and MIC Model. Results revealed that the implementation of the social engineering process to develop teaching and learning under a project-based learning model effectively promoted student competency. Students achieved an average overall competency score of 3.7 out of 4.0, demonstrating improvements in analytical thinking, innovation creation, and community engagement with a public-minded spirit. Furthermore, stakeholder satisfaction scores for all items exceeded 4.5 out of 5.0, or "high," covering communication clarity, activity appropriateness, innovation benefits, community participation, student ethics, activity continuity, and economic, social, and environmental opportunities. This research demonstrates that using the five social engineering processes in conjunction with project-based learning can develop learners' integrated competencies to effectively address real community issues, create innovations for sustainable community development, and promote university-community collaboration in line with the BCG approach and the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs. Keywords: Project-Based Learning, Social Engineers, Learner Competencies, Community Enterprises, Sustainable Community Development. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 22
Unraveling the Cascading Effects: Banking Frauds, Performance, and Exchange Rate Volatility Dynamics 1Binata Rani Sen, 2Prof. Dr. Jiang Minghui 1Ph. D. Fellow, School of Business, Harbin Institute of Technology, Nangang, China 2Ph. D. Doctoral supervisor, School of Business, Harbin Institute of Technology, China AbstractPurpose:The current research examines the relationship between banking fraud, banking sector performance, and exchange rate volatility in the context of Bangladesh, spanning the period from 2000 to 2023. The research aims to investigate how fraudulent activities at the riverbank affect institutional performance, which also impacts the exchange rate fluctuation dynamics of the riverbank with its major trading partners. Design/Methodology/Approach: Based on Cresseyʼs Fraud Triangle Theory, the research employs econometric techniques, including the Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity GARCH model and the Vector Error Correction Model VECM. Quarterly sample statistics were compiled on fraud case-triggering macro-variables, personnel and non-performing loans exposure, and return on assets, as well as the exchange rate vis-à-vis the principal export and importing partners. Findings:The findings find a persistent long-term relationship between fraud and bank performance. In detail, the volume and the employees involved in the fraud case have a negative effect on ROA, while the monetary amount of the fraud case has a contrary association. Additionally, we find that banking efficiency has an effect on exchange rate volatility, with positive effects for the Indian Rupee, Chinese Yuan, and Euro, and negative effects for the Pound Sterling; no effect is observed for the US Dollar. These results reveal the direct and spillover impacts of the fraud-driven instability on financial and trade networks. Originality/Value: This study is distinctive in that it encompasses research on fraud, bank performance, and international finance, identifying fraud-induced inefficiencies within the context of macroeconomic currency dynamics. By providing empirical evidence from Bangladesh, a country predominantly plagued by financial scandals, this study offers a fresh perspective for policymakers, regulators, and financial institutions that wish to suppress fraud, improve performance, and mitigate exchange rate fluctuations in emerging nations. Keywords: Banking Fraud, Bank Performance, Exchange Rate Volatility, GARCH Model, Vector Error Correction Model VECM. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 23
The Social Engineer as a Catalyst for Community Development: A Case Study on Promoting Elderly Quality of Life 1Choat Inthawongse, 2Niparat Boogun, 3Nongrat Issaro, 4Peangporn Banyaphad 1Faculty of Industrial Technology, Muban Chom Bueng Rajabhat University, Ratchaburi, Thailand 2Department of Public Health, College of Muay Thai Studies and Thai Traditional Medicine, Muban Chom Bueng Rajabhat University, Ratchaburi, Thailand 3Department of Climate Change and Environment, Bangkok, Thailand 4Kanchanatchaburi, Thailand AbstractThis study positions the Social Engineer as a transformative agent in addressing the complex challenges of aging societies through community-based innovation. Set in the context of Muban Chom Bueng Rajabhat University MCRU, Thailand, the research explores how equipping students with targeted social engineering skillsets can simultaneously enhance elderly quality of life and fulfill the universityʼs mission for local development. The Social Engineer Model developed in this study integrates four core competencies—critical thinking, communication, coordination, and innovation—into a structured learning experience that bridges academic training with real-world application. Students were immersed in experiential learning environments that emphasized empathy, problem-solving, and collaborative design. Proprietary tools such as Fah Prathan, Timeline Krabuankan, and the M.I.C. Model Modify, Improve, Create) enabled students to analyze community contexts, co-create solutions, and implement development initiatives that responded directly to elderly needs.Rather than treating aging as a passive demographic trend, the model reframes older adults as active participants in community revitalization. Student-led projects—ranging from wellness programs and income-generating activities to cultural preservation—demonstrated how targeted interventions can restore dignity, reduce isolation, and foster intergenerational solidarity. These initiatives not only improved physical and emotional well-being among elderly residents but also cultivated a sense of purpose and social value.Quantitative and qualitative evaluations confirmed the modelʼs effectiveness. Students showed marked improvement in all four skill dimensions, particularly in critical thinking and coordination. The Social Return on Investment SROI analysis revealed a return ratio of 2.63, with social value distributed across economic, social, educational, and environmental domains. Experts validated the modelʼs structure as systematic, adaptable, and scalable—making it suitable for replication in diverse community contexts.Ultimately, this study affirms that the Social Engineer is more than a pedagogical construct; it is a strategic role capable of catalyzing sustainable development. By embedding social engineering competencies into higher education, institutions can produce graduates who are not only workforce-ready but also socially responsive. The MCRU Social Engineer Model offers a compelling blueprint for integrating academic mandates with community impact, demonstrating how education can be reimagined as a force for inclusive, locally grounded change. Keywords: Community Development, Elderly Quality of Life,Social Engineer Skills. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 24
Developing a Short-Term, Experiential Learning Curriculum to Foster Social Engineer Skills in University Students: A Case Study from Muban Chom Bueng Rajabhat University 1Noppadol Thumchuea, 2Anurak Thanyacharoen, 3Nongrat Issaro, 4Peangporn Banyaphad 1Faculty of Education, Muban Chom Bueng Rajabhat University, Ratchaburi, Thailand 2Faculty of Science and Technology, Muban Chom Bueng Rajabhat University, Ratchaburi, Thailand 3Department of Climate Change and Environment, Bangkok, Thailand 4Kanchanatchaburi, Thailand AbstractThis study aimed to develop a short-term experiential learning curriculum designed to cultivate essential personal and civic attributes in university students, while enhancing their competencies as social engineers. The curriculum focused on four core attributes: 1 fostering a positive attitude toward the nation and society, 2 building a moral foundation and ethical discernment, 3 promoting employability through diligence and professional competence, and 4 encouraging responsible citizenship. These attributes were integrated with four key social engineering skills: critical and creative thinking, effective communication, collaboration and coordination, and innovation. A qualitative research approach was employed to identify the needs, principles, and strategies for curriculum development. Data were collected from stakeholders across 38 Rajabhat Universities in Thailand. Based on the findings, a draft curriculum was developed and reviewed by a panel of seven experts. Their feedback informed revisions prior to a pilot implementation with 100 university students. The finalized curriculum comprises six modules delivered over 18 hours. Module 1, Breaking the Ice, emphasizes relationship-building, trust, and shared goal setting to inspire collaborative and enjoyable learning. Module 2, Heavenly Tools, focuses on applying analytical tools to examine facts and emotions surrounding social issues, accepting diverse perspectives, and identifying common ground. Module 3, Circadian Rhythm Management, highlights techniques for effective questioning and the use of the life clock tool to determine appropriate timing for tasks. Module 4, Development Timeline, applies the developmental timeline tool to trace the historical roots of problems, enabling participants to collaboratively plan appropriate solutions while recognizing impacts across time. Module 5, Process Timeline, emphasizes analyzing tasks, breaking them into components, allocating resources through the 4M framework Man, Money, Materials, Management), and mapping processes using a process timeline chart. Finally, Module 6, M.I.C. Model Application, involves group activities designed to generate creative problem-solving strategies through the M.I.C. Model, culminating in project proposals aimed at addressing identified issues. Evaluation of the pilot program demonstrated the curriculumʼs effectiveness in enhancing studentsʼ social engineering competencies and personal development. The structured modules provided a practical framework for fostering employability, ethical awareness, innovation, and civic responsibility. In conclusion, this curriculum offers a replicable model for higher education institutions seeking to integrate experiential learning with social engineering skill development. It supports the broader goal of preparing students to contribute meaningfully to society as competent, ethical, and innovative citizens. Keywords: Experiential Learning Curriculum, Social Engineer Skills. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 25
Community-Based Music Creation as Learning Innovation: The Kluai Tanao Si Song Project for Cultural Sustainability in Thailand 1Traitrung Ploymong, 2Noppadol Thumchuea 1Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences,Muban Chombueng Rajabhat University, Ratchaburi, Thailand 2Faculty of Education,Muban Chombueng Rajabhat University, Ratchaburi, Thailand AbstractThis study presents The Kluai Tanao Si Song Project as an innovative model of community-based learning that integrates music composition, local knowledge, and cultural sustainability in Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi Province, Thailand. Kluai Tanao Si—a distinctive local banana variety—embodies both biological and cultural heritage, reflecting the communityʼs close relationship with nature through agriculture, cuisine, and folk traditions. Amid rapid modernization and globalization, this project sought to preserve and revitalize local wisdom by transforming it into a creative educational process. Using a Participatory Action Research PAR framework, teachers, students, and community members collaboratively explored the cultural knowledge surrounding Kluai Tanao Si and reinterpreted it through songwriting, performance, and digital media production. The resulting composition, “Kluai Tanao Si,ˮ functions as both an aesthetic artifact and a pedagogical tool—demonstrating how music can serve as a living knowledge system that captures, transmits, and reanimates indigenous wisdom. Learning through music enabled participants to engage emotionally and intellectually with their heritage, while developing creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking—key competencies for 21st-century education. The projectʼs design was grounded in multiple theoretical perspectives: Aesthetics of Music Hanslick; Scruton), Music for Learning Swanwick; Campbell), Experiential Learning Kolb, Transformative Learning Mezirow), and Knowledge Management Davenport & Prusak). Together, these frameworks explain how musical experience stimulates perception and memory, facilitates co-creation, and transforms tacit cultural knowledge into explicit, shareable educational resources. The outcomes illustrate that music-based pedagogy can bridge formal and informal education, connecting schools and communities through co-learning and intergenerational participation. Findings reveal that the song and its associated media fostered pride in local identity, strengthened social cohesion, and enhanced awareness of biodiversity and cultural heritage. Moreover, the project aligns with UNESCOʼs Education for Sustainable Development ESD and the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage 2003 by emphasizing the transmission of living traditions through participatory practice. It also supports the Royal Plant Genetic Conservation Project RSPG initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, linking cultural creativity with biodiversity conservation. In conclusion, the Kluai Tanao Si Song Project exemplifies an emerging paradigm of arts-integrated, community-based education that unites creativity, culture, and sustainability. By repositioning music as both medium and message of learning, the project demonstrates how artistic engagement can sustain heritage, empower learners, and inspire a more inclusive and culturally grounded model of education for sustainable development. Keywords: Community-Based Learning, Music Education, Cultural Sustainability, Participatory Action Research, Intangible Cultural Heritage, Thailand. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 26
Clustering and Modeling Wedge Failure of Late Proterozoic Igneous Rock Slopes Northeast of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Mohammed A. M. Alghamdi Engineering Geology, Faculty of Earth Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, KSA AbstractRock slope failures, particularly wedge failures influenced by geological discontinuities and slope geometry, pose significant geohazards in the Late Proterozoic igneous rock slopes northeast of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This study presents an integrated approach for clustering and modeling wedge failure in these slopes. Eleven field stations were analyzed to investigate the relationship between geological discontinuities, slope geometry, and the risk of failure. Kinematic and principal component analyses PCA were used to classify failure-prone directions and cluster sites based on failure behavior. Significant positive and negative correlations were identified among sites, and mathematical modeling enabled the prediction of failure rates at correlated locations. Furthermore, the study quantified the relationship between the percentage of wedge failure and the slope cut angle, determining the optimal slope angles for stabilization. The results provide a framework for targeted geohazard mitigation and informed infrastructure planning in similar geological environments. Keywords: Slope Stabilization, Kinematic Analysis, Dips, Principal Component Analysis PCA, Correlation Analysis. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 27
Composite Evolution in Commercial Airliners: From Traditional Fibers to Sustainable Cork-Based Systems Melih Cemal Kushan, Canatay Battal Kushan Aviation and Space Technologies Research and Application CenterEskisehir, Turkiye Abstract The progressive adoption of composite materials in commercial airliners has significantly transformed aircraft design and manufacturing, driven by the pursuit of weight reduction, fuel efficiency, structural performance, and sustainability. This paper presents a chronological investigation of composite applications in passenger aircraft, particularly focusing on narrow-body and regional jet programs such as the ARJ21, C919, SSJ100, and the military transport A400M. Emphasis is also given to the emerging use of cork-based composite systems, which offer eco-friendly alternatives and vibration-damping properties. Building on several author-led studies 1, this work integrates historical trends, structural roles, and the transition towards sustainable materials, highlighting key technological milestones and proposing a new perspective for the future of aerostructural innovation. Introduction Since the mid-20th century, the role of composite materials in aviation has evolved from minor secondary applications to critical structural functions (see Fig. 1. The widespread use of carbon fiber reinforced polymers CFRPs has enabled engineers to meet demanding design goals such as lightweighting, corrosion resistance, and improved fatigue performance. In parallel, sustainability concerns have prompted the exploration of natural-based materials like cork, particularly in non-load-bearing yet performance-critical regions of the airframe. This study investigates how composite usage in airliners has developed over time and how recent research, including studies by the authors, contributes to future trends in sustainable aerospace structures. Literature Review: Chronological Development Of Composites In Airliners Early applications of composites in aerospace focused primarily on secondary structures. Notable evolution is seen in regional aircraft such as the ARJ21, C919, and SSJ100, and military transport aircraft like the A400M. The composite structures of the C919 have been analyzed in both conference proceedings and journal publications by the author Materials & Methods This study integrates a dual approach combining (i) a chronological survey of composite material usage in commercial airliners and (ii) an experimental evaluation of cork-based hybrid composites for sustainable applications. Results & Discussion Cork composites offer significant damping characteristics with minimal structural weight. When compared to GFRP and CFRP, cork-based panels performed best in low-frequency damping scenarios, making them ideal for interior fuselage zones, MRO retrofitting, and vibration-critical components DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 28
Conclusion& Future Work This study has traced the chronological development of composite materials in commercial airliners and examined the potential of cork-carbon hybrid composites as a sustainable alternative in aerospace applications. The results confirm that while CFRP remains the dominant choice for primary, load-bearing structures due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and proven durability, cork-based systems demonstrate notable advantages in low-frequency vibration damping, thermal insulation, and acoustic performance. Keywords: Composite Materials, Airliners, Cork Composites, Sustainable Aviation, Aircraft Structures, Chronological Development. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 29
Biodegradation of Poly-Paper Coffee Cups by Tenebrio molitor and Zophobas morio 1Francisco Palazzo, 2Victoria Shekerdemian, 3Karla Soto, 4Josefina María Echazú, 5Pamela Romina Bernabeu, 6Federico Leonel Parra 1,2,3,4,5,6Universidad Argentina de la Empresa UADE, Instituto de Tecnología INTEC, Buenos Aires, Argentina AbstractSingle-use coffee cups, composed of paperboard laminated with polyethylene (poly-paper), represent a growing environmental concern due to their resistance to biodegradation and limited recyclability. While the biodegradation of conventional plastics such as polystyrene by insect larvae has been widely studied, little is known about the potential of larvae to degrade poly-paper materials. In this study, we investigated the ability of Tenebrio molitor (mealworms) and Zophobas morio (superworms) to consume and biodegrade coffee cups made of poly-paper. Experimental groups included untreated cup fragments, fragments subjected to a mild organic acid pre-treatment, and feeding trials with and without supplementation of vegetable residues to mimic realistic waste conditions. Preliminary results showed that, over a period of 28 days, T. molitor degraded 8.3 ± 0.4% of the plastic layer in pre-treated cups and 3.2 ± 0.13% in untreated ones (p<0.0001; n=3. In contrast, Z. morio exhibited lower consumption rates—1.4 ± 0.32% for treated and 1.6 ± 0.37% for untreated cups. In T. molitor, 81% of larvae survived in the control treatment, 20% pupated or emerged as beetles, and the remaining individuals increased their body weight by 40%. In the pre-treated condition, survival reached 75%, with no pupation but maintenance of body mass, suggesting the conversion of cup-derived polymers into metabolic energy. These findings provide the first quantitative evidence that T. molitor can actively consume and partially degrade the plastic component of poly-paper coffee cups when mild pre-treatment is applied. Larvae-assisted biodegradation therefore emerges as a simple, low-cost, and potentially scalable strategy to mitigate single-use cup waste within institutional and urban settings. Keywords: Poly-Paper, Coffee Cups, Biodegradation, Tenebrio Molitor, Zophobas Morio. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 30
Guihai Steles Forest, China: The Reliving the Past of the Ancient Guihai Steles Forest and Changing the Meaning of the Perspective of Retro Tourism 1ChunGan, 2Prathabjai Suwanthada 1,2Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts and Cultural Science, Mahasarakham University, Thailand AbstractThis paper aims to explore the evolution of Guilin's stone inscription culture from its origins in the Eastern Jin Dynasty, through its flourishing during the Tang and Song Dynasties, to its continuation in the Yuan, Ming, Qing Dynasties, and modern society. It analyzes how Guihai Steles Forest, driven by social factors such as institutional shifts, evolving cultural concepts, urbanization, and economic transformation, has transitioned from serving as a multifaceted cultural medium for recording, narrating, and educating in ancient times to redefining its functions and significance in the modern context—now focusing on landscape appreciation, education, and retro tourism development. The paper elucidates how the Guihai Steles Forest has evolved into a “retro tourismˮ domain that facilitates deep cultural immersion within contemporary society. This retro tourism model transforms static historical resources into immersive, emotionally resonant, and consumable retro tourism products. By skillfully weaving together nostalgia, cultural heritage, and market economics, it not only provides an innovative pathway for the sustainable preservation and interpretation of historical legacies but also successfully constructs a comprehensive development model integrating cultural benefits, social cohesion, and economic efficiency. Keywords: Guihai Steles Forest, Function and Significance, Retro Tourism. I. Introduction Guilin Stele Forest, located in Guilin City—a renowned tourist destination in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region—represents the most concentrated and representative collection of cliff inscriptions in the Guilin area. These stone carvings encompass political, economic, educational, historical, religious, cultural, and artistic themes, vividly recreating the social landscape and humanistic life of bygone eras. Today, they serve as a vital repository for showcasing ancient culture. In the context of contemporary transformation, Guihai Steles Forest has evolved from its origins as a mere gathering place for stone inscriptions into a cultural venue with museum-like functions. It now fulfills modern roles in collection, research, education, tourism, and social services, offering visitors eager to connect with history an immersive experience space. II. The History and Development of Guihai Steles Forest 2.1 Ecological Spaces in the Guilin Region Guilin City is a prefecture-level city under the jurisdiction of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and serves as a sub-provincial center. Located in South China at the southern end of the Xiang-Guang Corridor, it sits in the southwestern part of the Nanling Mountain Range and the central northern section of the Guilin-Yangshuo karst basin, covering a total area of 27,800 square kilometers Guilin Municipal People's Government, 2021.The geographical features are dominated by karst limestone landscapes, while the climate exhibits subtropical monsoon characteristics with moderate temperatures and humidity, and rainfall coinciding with the warm DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 37
season. The Guilin Stone Inscriptions emerged within the city's unique karst landscape, with the vast majority carved onto the stone hills within and surrounding Guilin(Guilin Municipal People's Government, 2022. The “Guilin Stone Inscriptionsˮ (dating from the Tang to Qing dynasties) were designated as a National Key Cultural Heritage Site in the fifth batch of such designations State Council, 2001. 2.2 Historical Development of Stone Carving Culture in Guilin Guilin is a renowned cultural city with over two thousand years of history, founded during the Western Han Dynasty and emerging as the political, economic, and cultural center of Guangxi during the Song Dynasty. Since the Spring and Autumn period, it served as a vital passageway connecting the Central Plains to Lingnan, deeply influenced by Central Plains culture. During the Sui and Tang dynasties, the imperial court prioritized Guilin's development to strengthen border defenses. This led to urban expansion, economic growth, and cultural flourishing. Abundant stone carving materials contributed to the city's prestige and prosperity. During the Tang Dynasty, Guilin attracted numerous literati and scholars for various reasons, becoming a gathering place for intellectuals. Located in a subtropical climate zone characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and rainfall, Guilin has left behind a wealth of world-renowned poetry, masterpieces, and precious rock inscriptions Tao, 2023. Prior to the Tang Dynasty, Guilin was a remote frontier region serving as a place of imperial exile. This route was perceived as challenging by northerners, and officials demoted for offenses often felt disheartened. Consequently, cliff inscriptions in Guilin were scarce before the Tang period. However, after the Tang Dynasty, the imperial court began focusing more on governing the south, leading to an increase in officials and merchants traveling to the region. As north-south exchanges intensified, Guilin's natural beauty gained widespread recognition Dai, 2017. By the Sui and Tang dynasties, Guilin had become the seat of the Guiguan Circuit and Prefecture, experiencing significant development in institutional, economic, and cultural spheres compared to earlier periods. Cliff inscriptions also emerged during this era, with 39 such inscriptions from the Sui and Tang dynasties currently identified Cao, 2021. During the Song Dynasty, governance of the Lingnan region gained prominence, elevating Guilin to a key strategic stronghold. In the Northern Song period, it served as the seat of the Guangnan West Circuit Commandery. In the third year of the Shengxiang era 1133, it was upgraded to Jingjiang Prefecture, overseeing 25 prefectures within the Guangnan Circuit Zhang, 2019. Figure 1 Guihai Steles Forest 1 Source: The photograph was taken by Author DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 38
Guilin once served as the political, economic, and cultural center of Guangxi, where countless travelers left their footprints. According to the Catalogue of Names Engraved on Guangxi Stone Inscriptions, the book selected 3,944 names from stone inscriptions dating from the Southern Dynasties to the Qing Dynasty Zhang, 2008. Examining the composition of extant stone inscription authors in Guilin reveals a diverse group: outsiders and locals, men and women, high-ranking officials and commoners, farmers and artisans, the elderly and the young, monks and Taoists, literati and scholars, as well as those with limited literacy. Among them, literati and scholars constitute the largest group Chen, 2011. Ancient literati and officials often overlapped in status. While serving in government, they achieved great literary accomplishments. As members of the ruling class, they wielded significant influence and used their literary works to express their patriotic sentiments and life aspirations. Among officials stationed in Guilin, many fit this description. Some were exiled, others faced career setbacks. Their diverse backgrounds upon arrival shaped their perspectives during scenic tours: some channeled patriotic fervor through landscapes, others grappled with the dissonance between official aspirations and reality, while some, contemplating the vicissitudes of bureaucracy, contemplated seclusion. Others reveled in the scenery to express their inner freedom and broad-mindedness. Deeply influenced by Confucian thought, they pursued the ideal of self-cultivation, family harmony, governance, and world peace as their life's goal. Yet, the complex contradictions of ancient bureaucratic society made it difficult for individual officials to realize their political ambitions and life aspirations. Through their works, they expressed their concern for the nation's destiny and their lofty aspirations to defend their homeland and achieve great deeds. Figure 2 Guihai Steles Forest 2 Source: The photograph was taken by Author III. The transformation of the function and significance of Guihai Steles Forest from ancient times to the present 3.1 Reviewing the Historical Role and Significance of Stone Inscriptions 3.1.1 Recording Function The Basic Issues in Stone Inscription Studies introduces three aspects: the classification of stone inscription documents, the forms of stone inscription research, and the levels of stone inscription research. Stone inscriptions are categorized into seven types: tombstones (stone inscriptions), epitaphs, stone carvings, commemorative inscriptions, cliff inscriptions, engraved DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 39
calligraphy, and miscellaneous carvings Cheng, 2015. These inscriptions served to engrave texts, commemorate events, record achievements, extol virtues, offer praise, deliver warnings, provide admonitions, signal messages, honor the deceased, express emotions, and mark boundaries. The motivations for erecting monuments were complex, the needs diverse, and the resulting monuments varied greatly in number and type. The content of inscriptions is all-encompassing, covering politics, military affairs, legal systems, government, writing, language, religion, calligraphy, literature, education, imperial examinations, history, economics, science and technology, astronomy, geography, cities, architecture, water conservancy, ethnic relations, Sino-foreign exchanges, clan genealogies, roads and bridges, scenic spots and historical sites, folk customs, deities, ghosts and monsters, disasters, auspicious events, and more Wang, 2012. This extensive coverage makes stone inscriptions crucial sources for multidimensional historical research on ancient societies. 3.1.2 Artistic Aesthetics The Guilin Steles Forest showcases masterpieces by numerous ancient calligraphy masters, featuring a comprehensive array of styles including seal script, running script, and cursive script. Both in form and content, Guilin's stone-carved calligraphy differs from ink-based calligraphy and stone inscriptions found in other regions.Content-wise, it encompasses solemn official documents, literary works by scholars, reproductions of calligraphic pieces, and spontaneous inscriptions on travel diaries Ao, 2023.These works showcase the exquisite craftsmanship and refined elegance of ancient literati, standing as priceless exemplars of Chinese calligraphic art. Lu, Interview, 2022.) 3.1.3 Dissemination As carriers of culture, steles disseminate an exceptionally broad range of content. A crucial aspect of this dissemination involves transmitting cultural and societal values. Throughout the process of cultural transmission, steles fully leverage their function of social education Ke, 2006. The flourishing of stele culture demonstrates its capacity for cultural accumulation. Historically, stele culture underwent prolonged development from the Pre-Qin period through the Ming and Qing dynasties, steadily broadening its cultural depth and enriching its cultural heritage. The proliferation and evolution of stele culture essentially constitute a historical process: building upon existing cultural foundations, it continuously matures through successive generations of transmission while generating new values and meanings. This process vividly demonstrates the vertical proliferation function inherent in stele culture. Under this function, steles not only perpetuate the forms and content of previous generations as physical carriers but also achieve layered accumulation and expansion in terms of cultural connotations and social functions. This establishes a cultural reproduction mechanism with historical depth. Regarding entertainment-oriented stele inscriptions, while they take the form of stone carvings, they essentially serve as vital mediums for literati and scholars to showcase their talents and express their spiritual essence. Through the integration of literary composition, calligraphy, and engraving, these stele construct an aesthetic space transcending daily life. They enable creators to channel their emotions and release their spirit through the interplay of brush, ink, chisel, and stone, while allowing viewers to find mental solace and equilibrium through contemplation and appreciation. This form of entertainment—playing with words and relying on stone carvings—functions similarly to how modern people use social media to showcase their lives and convey emotions. Both possess dual attributes of self-presentation and social interaction, thereby liberating individuals to some extent from the constraints of real-world social relationships and achieving inner adjustment and pleasure. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 40
3.2 Modern Functions and Significance of Stone Inscriptions 3.2.1 Cultural Transmission As a cultural practice spanning millennia, Guilin's stone inscriptions not only vividly embody traditional Chinese aesthetic ideals within the geographical landscape but also participate in the construction of the Chinese nation's collective memory. They constitute an indispensable component of its cultural symbolism system and spiritual ethos. Cultural symbols, as crystallizations of profound spiritual culture, embody specific cultural concepts and value orientations. They constitute shared humanistic imprints and emotional anchors for all ethnic groups across China, inscribing the collective cultural cognition and value orientations of the Chinese nation while constructing the cultural code for its holistic identity Zhao, 2011. As a concentrated manifestation of Guilin stone carving culture, the Guihai Steles Forest stands as a culturally rich collective entity. It gathers diverse symbolic practices, encompassing not only aesthetic expressions of calligraphy and painting but also social activities and spiritual pursuits rich in cultural significance. The generation and transmission of meaning invariably rely on the mediating function of symbols, whose essence lies in serving as the material carriers and expressive forms of meaning. The historical memory, regional sentiment, and humanistic spirit embodied in Guilin's stone carving culture are vividly presented and transmitted to the present day through its unique and systematic stone inscription symbol system. 3.2.2 Academic Research In the academic sphere, researchers rely on steles and inscriptions as invaluable physical and documentary evidence, providing a crucial foundation for studies in society, culture, and art. Academic research on Guilin's stone inscriptions has undergone a clear evolutionary trajectory: from traditional studies to systematic cataloging, and finally to multidimensional, in-depth interpretation. Within historical and philological studies, stone inscriptions serve as “primary historical sourcesˮ to corroborate details regarding official appointments, imperial examinations, military affairs, and regional socio-economic conditions across dynasties. In literary studies, research paradigms are undergoing profound shifts: perspectives are moving beyond textual interpretation alone toward comprehensive examinations of the social contexts, materiality, and cultural spaces surrounding inscription creation. Methodologically, there is active integration of digital humanities to address new challenges such as preservation. In summary, the study of Guilin stone inscriptions has evolved into a comprehensive interdisciplinary field. Its future trajectory extends toward deeper holistic, comparative, and revitalization approaches, aiming to fully reveal the profound significance of this “stone chronicle.ˮ 3.2.3 Education Educational and cultural institutions actively promote stone inscription culture through lectures, exhibitions, workshops, and other activities. These initiatives disseminate knowledge about stone inscriptions, cultivate public appreciation skills, and stimulate interest in traditional culture. The moral education potential inherent in stone inscription culture highlights positive elements such as patriotic themes, life philosophies, social ethics, ecological values, and local customary law resources. When adapted to contemporary contexts, these elements can strengthen patriotic education for youth, shape their worldviews and values, foster social morality, cultivate ecological ethics, and enhance legal awareness. As a vital component of local traditional culture, Guilin's stone inscription heritage embodies profound knowledge in philosophy, political science, ethics, history, aesthetics, and jurisprudence. Field studies and research on these inscriptions not only broaden students' intellectual horizons, enrich learning DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 41
content, and deepen knowledge comprehension but also stimulate curiosity and optimize cognitive structures Li, Interview, 2024. 3.2.4 Tourism The tourism value perspective primarily focuses on the relationship between the stone carvings themselves and tourism cities, scenic areas, and visitors. Zhu Lepeng et al. explained that Guilin's cliff carvings can elevate the city's cultural sophistication; conversely, visitors' engagement with these carvings enhances the quality of tourism Zhu, 2011. Nostalgia has long been recognized as an important factor in the consumption and production of tourism Hewison, 1987. As tangible carriers of ancient civilization, stone carvings offer profound experiences, becoming a unique charm of tourist destinations. Visiting the Guihai Steles Forest allows people to understand local history, traditions, and cultural evolution, achieving the goals of cultural heritage preservation and historical education. Stone carvings possess significant artistic and aesthetic value, attracting tourists to scenic spots, promoting cultural exchange and understanding, and providing a window for visitors to appreciate and learn about local culture. Furthermore, the display and promotion of stone carving culture can drive the development of the tourism industry, stimulating related tourism services, creative products, and souvenir sales Zeng, Interview, 2024. 3.3 Transformation and Reinvention of Guilin's Rock Inscriptions' Traditional Functions 3.3.1 Social Transformation In the course of modernization, cliff inscriptions have shed their historical cultural functions, gradually evolving from a dynamically evolving cultural landmark into a modern-day national cultural heritage and repository of historical legacy. Against the backdrop of rapid technological advancement, methods of information recording have become increasingly diverse. Electronic tools such as paper, mobile phones, and platform devices are widely used in daily life. The rise of electronic media, the internet, and digital platforms has further expanded the global dissemination of recorded information. Compared to traditional recording methods like ancient stone carvings and bamboo slips, modern society achieves more efficient and flexible information recording through advanced digital tools. The widespread application of digital technology provides practical solutions for preserving recorded content. Heightened environmental awareness has not only guided people toward a more cautious approach to mountain carving but also provided new perspectives and solutions for the preservation and transmission of stone inscriptions and stele. This shift reflects society's sense of responsibility toward the natural environment, creating conditions for better protection of natural ecosystems while respecting historical and cultural heritage. In contemporary society, it is rare to find writers or calligraphers creating rock carvings or mountain inscriptions on rocks or mountainsides. In contemporary cities, stone carvings have become integral components of cultural landscapes. Through repositioning, they infuse ancient cultures with renewed vitality, driving the adaptation of historical legacies to meet urban development needs. This evolution is both a historical inevitability and a reflection of humanity's ongoing understanding and re-examination of history and culture. 3.3.2 Economic Transformation In ancient times, stone carvings and inscriptions often emphasized the authority of feudal society and the achievements of rulers, serving as tools to consolidate their positions. Some stone carvings also provided a medium for literati and scholars to express themselves. Modern society has undergone profound shifts in its perception of the value of these cultural relics, DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 42
placing greater emphasis on harnessing their cultural significance. Well-preserved stone carvings, stele inscriptions, and other relics have become cultural calling cards for cities, attracting tourists and injecting vitality into urban cultural tourism industries. This not only establishes distinctive cultural brands for cities but also drives the development of urban cultural industries, fostering economic prosperity. Thus, in modern society, stone carvings and inscriptions serve both as historical witnesses and as driving forces propelling cultural tourism and economic growth. IV. Guihai Steles Forest from the Perspective of Nostalgic Tourism 4.1 Retro Tourism As the value of Guilin's cliff inscriptions has gained increasing recognition, their relationship with tourism has also entered the research spotlight. True tourism in ancient China began during the Wei and Jin dynasties when aesthetic appreciation for landscapes emerged. For early travelers, journeys were rarely pleasurable—they often entailed leaving home, living as strangers in foreign lands, and facing uncertain futures. Such experiences were linked to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, danger, and unpredictability. Limited by humanity's capacity to control nature, early journeys served diverse purposes—political, military, economic, or cultural—and were predominantly utilitarian. People often viewed distant landscapes with apprehension rather than aesthetic appreciation. It was only after the Wei and Jin dynasties, when people began to appreciate landscapes for their beauty, that travel shifted from utilitarian to aesthetic purposes, marking the true dawn of tourism(Wu, 2018 . Modern people have developed a sense of alienation from modern society and seek to escape or shed this feeling. They believe or imagine that only by distancing themselves from the city, avoiding modern society, and retreating into pre-modern communities can they rediscover their lost spiritual homeland. They yearn to find “authenticityˮ in bygone eras and foreign cultures. Thus, the more economic production advances, the more people become entangled in a complex of nostalgia for ancient traditions(MacCannell, 1976. U From the perspective of tourist motivation, cliff inscriptions serve as a significant cultural factor attracting subsequent visitors. Literati and scholars follow the traces of earlier inscriptions to explore ancient sites, forming a distinctive phenomenon of "stele-based tourism." This form of tourism, which facilitates a dialogue with history through cliff inscriptions, satisfies both the aesthetic appreciation of natural landscapes and the spiritual pursuit of cultural tracing. The presence of these inscriptions elevates tourism beyond the superficial level of spatial movement, transforming it into a cross-temporal cultural experience. In terms of tourism effects, this cultural imagery is largely attributable to the continuous construction of cliff inscriptions across different dynasties. These inscriptions create a unique destination branding effect and reflect the hierarchical progression of tourist experiences. Early inscriptions predominantly expressed direct admiration for scenic landscapes, while over time, they evolved to encompass personal reflections, social interactions, and even philosophical contemplations. This shift from sensory to spiritual engagement illustrates a complete process of deepening tourist experience. As material remnants of ancient tourism activities, the cliff inscriptions of Guilin not only provide tangible evidence for tourism history research but also serve as a critical window into understanding the characteristics of travel culture in ancient China. They vividly demonstrate the transition of tourism from utilitarian travel to aesthetic experience, document the historical diffusion of tourism participants from elite circles to the broader public, and reveal the evolution of tourist experiences from superficial sightseeing to deep cultural immersion. An in-depth exploration of the relationship between cliff inscriptions and tourism development will contribute to the construction of a retro-tourism research paradigm that is more historically profound and culturally sensitive. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 43
4.2 Benefits to Contemporary Society 4.2.1 Cultural Education and Heritage Transmission The Guihuai Stele Forest offers students, educational institutions, and the public a valuable opportunity to engage with living history. By observing these monuments and inscriptions, individuals gain deeper insights into various facets of ancient society, fostering greater appreciation for history, culture, and art while laying a solid foundation for cultural heritage preservation Li, Interview, 2024. The Guilin Stele Forest embodies the ideas, artistry, and techniques of ancient society. By hosting cultural activities such as lectures, exhibitions, and academic seminars, it enables the public to gain profound insights into Guilin's stone carving culture. This immersive cultural experience not only sparks public interest in traditional culture but also advances its transmission, preservation, and promotion. 4.2.2 Tourism and Economic Benefits The inscriptions on Guilin's cliff carvings serve as the most authentic textual records of ancient travelers' experiences. By examining the conflicts and transcendence ancient tourists encountered between their lived world and the natural world, these inscriptions enrich tourism experience research, help construct a tourism world rooted in Eastern aesthetics, and offer valuable insights for modern travelers to enhance travel quality and deepen the aesthetic pleasure tourism brings to the soul Wu, 2018. Guihai Steles Forest serves as both a historical and cultural site and a popular tourist attraction in the region, making it a significant contributor to the local tourism economy. The growth in tourism has not only enhanced the area's visibility but also provided abundant tourism resources, driving the development of related service industries such as catering, accommodation, travel, and entertainment. Furthermore, Guihai Steles Forest has attracted the organization of various cultural events, further enriching the cultural atmosphere of the local community(Yao, Interview, 2025. 4.2.3 Cultural Identity Guihai Steles Forest holds significant value and meaning for modern society in terms of cultural identity and cultural memory within the community.As a vital repository of cultural memory, it shoulders the responsibility of preserving and transmitting the nation's historical and cultural heritage. By participating in cultural activities at Guihai Steles Forest, community residents can experience the unique cultural memory of their neighborhood and strengthen their connection to historical traditions. Inheriting this cultural memory not only perpetuates the community's history but also assists individuals in constructing their own identities. Through historical and cultural interactions, Guihai Steles Forest plays a vital role in shaping the cultural memory and identity of community residents. This enhances their sense of belonging and provides opportunities for shared experiences. 4.3 The Relationship Between Guihai Stone Forest and Modern Social Groups 4.3.1 Local Residents The cultural identity of local residents embodies the cultural pride Guilin citizens feel toward Guihai Steles Forest. By actively participating in its preservation and promotion, they consciously shoulder the responsibility of safeguarding and promoting Guilin's local culture. Driven by retro tourism concepts, locals integrate cultural experiences with tourism products through participation in related industries—such as tourism services and handicraft sales—thereby generating economic benefits. 4.3.2 Tourists For example, nostalgia has been associated with historical events in heritage tourism by examining relationships between socio-cultural conditions and heritage tourism institutions DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 44
Kim, 2005.Past events or experiences shape travelers' perceptions and experiences of destinations Bandyopadhyay, 2008. Retro tourism emphasizes personalized travel experiences. The formation of nostalgia tourism groups stems from the pursuit of self-identity, a psychological mechanism crucial for nostalgia to effectively enhance personal experiences Batcho, 2013. The historical and cultural value of Guihai Steles Forest creates cultural resonance, offering visitors a space to consume the past. By engaging with this past, tourists gain spiritual and emotional value, deepening their emotional connection to Guihai Steles Forest. 4.3.3 Guihai Steles Forest of Museum The government's close relationship with Guihai Steles Forest is crucial for managing and developing the site while safeguarding cultural heritage. Through financial support, grants, and project investments, the government assists Guihai Stele Forest in preserving artifacts, upgrading museum facilities, and promoting outreach, thereby fostering sustainable development. Established in 1984, Guihai Stele Forest Museum is Guangxi sole institution dedicated to the conservation, research, exhibition, and promotion of stone inscriptions(Wu, Interview, 2024. As a platform for cultural heritage preservation, exchange, and transmission, the museum leverages cultural and creative products to revitalize cultural assets, enrich exhibition experiences, shape a distinctive brand identity, and foster engagement with audiences. This approach achieves dual benefits: promoting cultural knowledge while generating economic returns. Simultaneously, audience participation through purchasing and using museum-branded products enables deeper understanding and immersion in the cultural significance of the collections, thereby advancing cultural transmission and accessibility. The development of museum cultural and creative products further propels the industry toward pursuing higher levels of cultural value, elevating the cultural substance of the entire sector. The demand for museum cultural and creative products from both audiences and the industry itself further drives the integration of innovative design and market needs within the museum cultural and creative derivative system Lin, 2024. Figure 3 The author experienced rubbing work at the Guihai Stele Forest Museum Source: The photograph was taken by Author 4.3.4 Artists As inheritors of stone carving techniques, they have made outstanding contributions to the protection, collection, organization, teaching, and promotion of Guilin's intangible cultural DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 45
heritage. Through their creative works, these artists have added unique artistic value to the Guihai Stele Forest. By organizing creative design activities, art exhibitions, and creative workshops, they have collectively built a platform for cultural exchange. This collaboration not only provides artists with opportunities to showcase their talents but also aligns Guihai Stele Forest with contemporary artistic trends, enhancing its competitiveness in the cultural tourism market. 4.3.5 History, Calligraphy, and Cultural Relics Enthusiasts Guihai Stele Forest stands as a treasure trove of historical witness, preserving a rich variety of ancient stone carvings and inscriptions that document social, cultural, and political transformations across multiple historical periods. The forest of stone steles offers history enthusiasts a unique and rich learning experience. For calligraphy aficionados, Guihai Stele Forest serves as a wellspring of artistic inspiration, showcasing diverse scripts like regular, running, cursive, and clerical styles while illuminating the historical context of calligraphic evolution across eras. Visitors can study the brushwork techniques of inscriptions and ancient calligraphers, thereby refining their own calligraphic skills and compositional layout. Some calligraphy enthusiasts experience the texture and ink of ancient stone carvings through rubbing inscriptions, breathing new life into ancient calligraphic art in the contemporary era. V. Conclusion This study analyzes the evolution of Guilin's stone inscription culture, tracing its origins to the Eastern Jin Dynasty, its flourishing during the Tang and Song Dynasties, and its continuity through the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties. The fundamental reasons for the emergence and prosperity of this stele culture lie in two interrelated factors: First, Guilin's unique karst topography provided abundant and suitable surfaces for inscriptions; Second, Guilin's strategic position as a historical cultural corridor between the Central Plains and Lingnan facilitated continuous flows of politicians and literati. As composite cultural carriers, ancient stone inscriptions served multiple functions: historical documentation, political narratives, legal codification, cultural arts, religious practices, and social education. Their surviving remnants constitute highly valuable “stone archivesˮ of historical records. In the modern era, the function of stone inscriptions has shifted from authoritative expression to cultural capital. They have been integrated into urban landscapes and public education systems, becoming vital resources for constructing local identity and developing cultural tourism. Research further reveals that this functional evolution is profoundly driven by social forces such as institutional change, shifting cultural concepts, urbanization, and economic transformation. Their role has gradually transformed from historical witnesses to active mediators in contemporary cultural reproduction. Guihai Stele Forest thus evolved from a traditional stele cluster into a modern cultural institution with functions of collection, research, education, and social service, embodying the functional continuity and meaning regeneration achieved through the ongoing revitalization of cultural heritage. Within the contemporary context, Guihai Steles Forest has evolved into a “retro-tourismˮ site that drives deep cultural experiences. Within this framework, Guihai Stele Forest effectively stimulates visitors' “historical nostalgiaˮ for bygone eras and cultural traditions through its stone inscriptions, traditional crafts (such as rubbing), and cultural narratives, serving as an emotional conduit linking personal memory to collective identity. This retro tourism model operates through a collaborative network jointly constructed by diverse actors—including museums, government bodies, communities, heritage bearers, travel agencies, and artists. Through cultural interpretation, skill demonstrations, heritage preservation, themed itinerary design, and creative product development, they transform static DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 46
(β=0.125 provides a fundamental guarantee. Based on this, enterprises should optimize resource allocation by taking product strategies as the foundation and promotion strategies as the handle, while also taking into account reasonable pricing and the convenience of all channels, in order to maximize the purchase intention. Table 6 Impact Ranking and Explanatory Power Research Hypothesis Test Result Standardized Coefficient (β) Explanatory Power R² Impact Ranking H1 Product strategy has a significant positive impact on purchase intention Supported 0.259 28.2% 1 H2 Price strategy has a significant positive impact on purchase intention Supported 0.171 17.8% 3 H3 Channel strategy has a significant positive impact on purchase intention Supported 0.125 17.9% 4 H4 Promotion strategy has a significant positive impact on purchase intention Supported 0.250 27.8% 2 As shown in Table 6, the four major strategies jointly explain the 38.5% variation in consumers' purchase intentions, fully verifying the applicability and explanatory power of the marketing mix theory in the research of local specialty fruit consumption. In conclusion, all four core hypotheses proposed in this study have been empirically supported. Product, promotion, price and channel strategies all have a significant positive impact on consumers' purchase intention. Specifically, there are differences in the degree of influence and explanatory power of each strategy The product strategy (β=0.259, R²28.2% plays the most prominent role, followed by the promotion strategy (β=0.250, R²27.8%, while the price strategy (β=0.171, R²17.8% and the channel strategy (β=0.125, R²17.9% play important auxiliary roles. IV. Conclusion The empirical findings affirm that the 4Ps framework effectively explains consumer purchase intention in the Wogan orange market. The dominance of product strategy highlights consumersʼ sensitivity to taste, freshness, and packaging aesthetics attributes closely tied to perceived quality and brand image Zhao, 2023. Promotion strategy ranks second, emphasizing the effectiveness of social media advertising and limited-time offers in stimulating impulsive and planned purchases Wei, 2024. Price strategy, though moderate in influence, plays a crucial role in attracting price-conscious consumers. Dynamic and seasonal pricing mechanisms create perceived fairness and value Qu & Luo, 2024. Meanwhile, channel strategy enhances consumer convenience through the integration of online and offline purchasing platforms Li, 2025, aligning with the omnichannel marketing paradigm. These results are consistent with recent empirical studies. For instance, Wu et al. 2025 revealed that AI-driven analytics strengthen the credibility and decision-making of supply chains, indicating that technological integration—similar to digital promotion in this study—plays a key role in enhancing market trust and performance. Similarly, Gao et al. 2025 found that differences in online word-of-mouth platforms significantly influence consumer purchase intention, further confirming the importance of promotion and channel strategies in the digital context. Ling et al. 2025 emphasized the role of internal marketing and communication in driving SME success, which aligns with this studyʼs conclusion that DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 53
coordinated marketing efforts enhance organizational competitiveness and consumer engagement. Moreover, these findings correspond with Liu and Li 2024 and Hu 2024, who demonstrated that integrated marketing strategies build brand trust and repurchase intention in agricultural markets. Collectively, the evidence reinforces that the contextual application of the 4Ps framework—particularly through digital transformation, adaptive pricing, and strategic communication—remains vital for sustaining competitiveness in Chinaʼs regional agricultural industries. V. Future Research Future research could extend this study by incorporating behavioral experiments A/B testing) to measure the real-time impact of social media campaigns, segmenting consumers by demographic and psychographic profiles, and exploring long-term loyalty formation across different distribution channels. Integrating qualitative insights from farmers and distributors could also provide a more holistic understanding of value chain marketing in the agricultural sector. Reference 1. Ajzen, I. 1991. The theory of planned behavior. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 502, 179211. 2. Dodds, W. B., Monroe, K. B., & Grewal, D. 1991. Effects of price, brand, and store information on buyersʼ product evaluations. Journal of Marketing Research, 283, 307319. 3. Gao, J. W., Li, L. L., & He, X. J. 2023. Research on regionalized packaging of brand agricultural products under rural revitalization strategy: A case study of Wuming Wogan packaging. Packaging Engineering, 4410, 123130. 4. Gao, K., Meekaewkunchorn, N., Muangmee, C., & Sattabut, T. 2025. Impact of platform differences in online word-of-mouth on consumer purchase intention. Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology, 95, 30323045. 5. Gao, M., & Li, W. C. 2022. Research on consumersʼ willingness to buy fresh agricultural products via community group buying based on TPB theory. Agricultural Economics Research, 153, 101109. 6. Hu, S. J. 2024. Research on marketing strategies of Guangxi specialty agricultural products under the background of “Guipin Going Globalˮ: A case study of Wuming Wogan. China Agricultural Outlook, 203, 5562. 7. Li, Q. 2025. From offline to online: Complementarity and substitution effects of omnichannel marketing on consumer purchase intention. Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, 75, 103112. 8. Ling, L., Muangmee, C., Meekaewkunchorn, N., & Sattabut, T. 2025. Successful internal marketing factors on entrepreneurial of small and medium enterprises in China. Sarhad Journal of Agriculture, 413, 12751287. 9. Liu, W., & Li, J. 2024. Understanding consumersʼ willingness to buy region-branded fruits: A case study of Wuming Wogan in Nanning. China Rural Economy, 20243, 89105. 10. Qu, W. G., & Luo, M. Z. 2024. The impact of price discounts on consumer behavior: An integrated review. Advances in Psychological Science, 149, 218225. 11. Wei, R. 2024. The impact of social media promotional information on impulsive purchasing of agricultural products. Journal of Journalism and Communication Studies, 312, 8896. 12. Wu, F., Meekaewkunchorn, N., Muangmee, C., & Sattabut, T. 2025. Research on the impact mechanism of AI-driven supply chain creditworthiness assessment on commercial banksʼ credit policies for SMEs. Future Technology, 43, 4553. 13. Zhao, Z. X. 2023. Research on the impact of product packaging on consumersʼ purchase intention and countermeasures. Journal of Consumer Psychology, 111, 5663. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 54
A Study on the Flying Apsaras Designs of the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang during the Northern Wei Dynasty 1Shi Wenjun, 2Somkhit Sukerb, 3Li Yingfeng 1,2Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts and Cultural Science, Mahasarakham University, Thailand 3Guangxi Arts University, China AbstractThis paper takes theFlying Apsarassculptures of the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang during the Northern Wei Dynasty as the research object, focusing on their origin, dissemination, and localization evolution. Flying Apsaras originated from Gandharva and Kinnara, two minor deities in ancient Indian mythology, and spread to China with the eastward transmission of Buddhism. Against the background of prolonged ethnic integration and ideological-cultural fusion in the Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties, Flying Apsaras gradually broke away from the stylistic influence of India and the Western Regions. Driven by the Northern Weiʼs political reforms, economic development, and shifts in social aesthetics, the sculptures of Flying Apsaras underwent a transformation—from being stocky, robust, and clumsy in posture to becoming slender, flexible, and light in movement.By analyzing the characteristics of Flying Apsaras in key caves of the Longmen Grottoes—such as the "slim and agile" Flying Apsaras in Guyang Cave, the "slender and gentle" Flying Apsaras in Binyang Middle Cave, and the "slim figure with clear features" Flying Apsaras in Lianhua Cave—it can be observed that localized innovations were achieved in aspects including facial form, body proportion, costume design, carving techniques, and compositional layout. These innovations eventually led to the formation of the mature "Central Plains-style Flying Apsaras" image.The study reveals that the evolution of Flying Apsaras sculptures in the Longmen Grottoes of the Northern Wei Dynasty is a product of the collision and integration between foreign Buddhist culture and local Chinese culture. It not only reflects the historical context, social customs, and aesthetic orientation of that era but also lays a solid foundation for the development of Flying Apsaras art in the subsequent Sui and Tang Dynasties, thereby demonstrating the cultural inclusiveness and creative vitality of ancient Chinese grotto art. Keywords: Northern Wei Dynasty, Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, Flying Apsaras Sculptures, Central Plains-style Flying Apsaras, Localization of Buddhist Art, Slim Figure with Clear Features. I. The Origin of "Flying Apsaras" and the Spread of Buddhist Art 1.1 The Origin of "Flying Apsaras" The Apsaras, or flying apsaras, are the incarnations of two minor deities, Gandharvas and Kinnaras, in ancient Indian mythology. Originating in India, they were introduced to my country. Through the fusion of ancient Indian culture and the diverse cultures of my country, the robust physique of the Apsaras evolved into a light and agile figure with characteristics of Central China. The artistic style of the Apsaras gradually acquired Chinese cultural characteristics. Early Apsaras were heavily influenced by India, exhibiting a Western Regions style with rounded faces and somewhat clumsy movements. Later, the Western Regions and Central China styles merged, with the Apsaras wearing Taoist crowns, and their faces and bodies becoming more slender and refined, presenting a Central China style. Ultimately, they evolved into Apsaras with distinct Chinese cultural characteristics. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 55
Figure 1. Flying apsaras figures from the Indian period and the Northern Wei period. 1.2 The Rise and Spread of Buddhist Sculpture Art Buddhist sculptural art originated in India. With the rise of Buddhism in India, Buddhist sculptural art evolved from the worship of Buddha images to the veneration of actual Buddha statues, becoming more regionalized, standardized, and nationalized. Buddhist sculptural art spread from ancient India to countries around the world, blending with the cultural atmosphere of each nation. From early symbolic representation to the current realistic stage, this transformation allowed Buddhist sculptural art to develop, achieving its doctrinal goals and forming the art forms we see today, including sculpture and painting. For example, the inscriptions carved on cliffs and pillars paved the way for Indian Buddhist sculptural art, serving as a spiritual sustenance for the propagation of Buddhism, containing the aesthetic style and religious sentiment of the artists of that time, and also reflecting the political and social development of the country during that era. 1.3 The Formation of the "Flying Apsara" Design Buddhism was introduced to China during the Eastern Han Dynasty, and its carriers—grotto statues-were also introduced to the Central Plains region, along with the "flying apsaras" that accompanied the Buddha statues. 1.3.1 The Influence of Buddhism The Wei, Jin, and Northern and Southern Dynasties were an era of prolonged feudal separatism and constant warfare. Against this backdrop of a great fusion of ideologies and cultures, the introduction of Buddhism influenced people's thinking, making Buddhism a popular faith. People seemed to have reached a paradise, thus signifying a period of spiritual freedom. Emperors likened people to "Buddha," giving Buddhist statues a dual personality. People viewed emperors as "living Buddhas," saints capable of rescuing them from suffering. Rulers used the majesty of the Buddha to look down upon the world. Even monks who never knelt before emperors regarded them as "living Buddhas." This concept of unifying humanity and Buddha was a major transformation in Buddhist art, and also the reason why the "flying apsaras" became increasingly popular and their forms became more secularized. 1.3.2 Political and Economic Impetus In 439 AD, prolonged warfare in the north and southward migrations led to a period of great ethnic integration in ancient Chinese history. This population movement not only absorbed people from various ethnic groups but also fostered interaction among them. The flying apsaras style of the Longmen Grottoes in the Northern Wei Dynasty reflects the gradual DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 56
Sinicization of the Xianbei people and their interaction with the Central Plains. Historical records indicate that after the Tuoba clan established Pingcheng, the number of people migrating there exceeded one million within 50 years. During this period, the Tuoba clan needed a comprehensive system to consolidate their power, and thus utilized the profound and extensive Central Plains culture to fill the gaps in their own ethnic culture. During Emperor Wencheng's reign, due to political instability, he exterminated members of the imperial clan, gradually forming a new political force that reorganized the political order, from reducing the number of officials to reforming the political system and penal laws. Emperor Taiwu carried out a large-scale anti-Buddhist campaign, but it was only implemented formally and did not fundamentally eradicate Buddhism. Therefore, when Emperor Wencheng lifted the ban on Buddhism, Buddhism returned. This revival of Buddhism greatly helped to unify society and govern the people. The rapid development of Buddhism not only provided people with spiritual sustenance, but more importantly, it spread to the Central Plains region against the backdrop of ideological and cultural integration, becoming part of Chinese culture. The development of Buddhism in China was not a simple imitation, but rather a sublimation and re-creation based on existing foundations, which also explains the evolution of the "flying apsara" imagery during the Northern Wei Dynasty. Thus, the influx of early population migration, the large number of skilled craftsmen brought in, and the acceptance and integration among various ethnic groups became the root causes of the development of grottoes and factors contributing to the rapid formation of the Central Plains-style flying apsaras. 1.4 The Composition of Early "flying" Body Language Early "flying apsaras" also had an Indian artistic style. In the body language of "flying apsaras", not only did it have foreign style, but it also contained the characteristics of its own ethnic group. 1.4.1 Facial Expressions and Body Shape The appearance of the flying apsaras is mainly based on the style of Buddhism, its origin in India, and has strong Western Region and Indian characteristics. A white halo surrounds the back of the head, the face is plump and round, and the nose and eyes are made more three-dimensional by white powder. Although the expression looks stiff, it is not without a kind of naivety and cuteness. There are no high bun or ornaments on the head, and the overall facial features are somewhat rigid. The body is like that of a child, with a short and strong upper body, bare chest and back. The bare feet fly beside the Buddha statue, and the long skirt wrapped around the waist makes the legs raised backward look strong and powerful, with a special momentum. The early flying apsaras often had a "V" shape in their movements, and the overall image was thick, heavy and thick. Figure 2. Early image of flying apsaras DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 57
1.4.2 Props The use of props enriched the expressive forms of apsaras. Early apsaras, holding offerings and scattering flowers, clumsily held objects in their hands, playing various instruments such as the flute, sheng, waist drum, zheng, panpipes, ruanxian (long-necked pipa), cymbals, and chime stones, creating a joyful scene. This reflects the introduction of the apsara image from India to China, its integration with Chinese culture, and the emergence of apsara figures using traditional Chinese musical instruments. They give the impression of flying with a heavy burden, appearing in cave carvings, on cave ceilings, niche lintels, windows, and behind the main Buddha statue. In conclusion, the flying apsara, a unique image in Buddhist art, originated in India and entered China along with the eastward spread of Buddhism. After a long period of evolution and development, it became one of the common themes in Chinese Buddhist grotto sculptures. Early flying apsaras were heavily influenced by Indian and Western Region flying apsaras in terms of appearance, figure, and posture, resulting in very similar forms. Because the artisans at that time lacked understanding of Buddhist themes and foreign cultures, they were in a stage of imitation, and the depictions of the flying apsaras were not very detailed or realistic. Later, the introduction of Buddhism and the political and economic development in northern China accelerated the localization of the flying apsara image in China. The artisans' depictions of the flying apsaras gradually became more realistic and lifelike, with varied forms of expression. Through long-term development, this ultimately laid the foundation for the Sinicization of the flying apsara. II. "Flying Apsaras" sculptures from the Northern Wei Dynasty at Longmen Grottoes 2.1 A Brief History of Longmen Grottoes Longmen Grottoes, a national 5A-level scenic area and one of China's four major grottoes, is a World Heritage Site. It comprises four main scenic areas: the West Hill Grottoes, the East Hill Grottoes, Xiangshan Temple, and Baiyuan Garden. Famous attractions include the Vairocana Buddha, the "scissor-hand" Buddha statue, Guyang Cave, Binyang Cave, and Lotus Cave. Construction of the Longmen Grottoes followed that of the Yungang Grottoes, beginning when Emperor Xiaowen moved the capital to Luoyang. It spanned over 1400 years, through more than ten dynasties including the Northern Wei, Eastern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Qi, Sui, Tang, Five Dynasties, Song, Ming, and Qing, making it the world's longest-constructed grotto complex. Emperor Xiaowen's move to Luoyang brought Buddhism to the Central Plains, and the Longmen Grottoes became a new center of Buddhist culture, representing the fusion of foreign religions and local Chinese art. The evolution of the Longmen Grottoes' sculptures is a continuation of that of the Yungang Grottoes. The Buddha statues' physical features shifted from robust to refined, their clothing from a robe exposing the right shoulder to a wide-sleeved robe, their style from rugged to elegant, their carving techniques from straight cuts to rounded cuts, and their subject matter from fantastical realms to realistic depictions of human life. All of these developments benefited from the Sinicization reforms implemented by Emperor Xiaowen. With the relocation of the capital to Luoyang in the Central Plains and the promotion of Sinicization, the Longmen Grottoes emerged against this backdrop. 2.2 The Evolution of the "Flying Apsaras" Image in the Longmen Grottoes of the Northern Wei Dynasty To understand the evolution of the "flying apsara" image, we must analyze it in conjunction with the historical context, political system, and aesthetic style of the time in order to arrive at a more objective interpretation. The prolonged warfare and southward migration of people in the Yellow River basin of northern China led to large-scale population movement, changing the once mono-ethnic DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 58
structure dominated by the Han Chinese and resulting in an unprecedented phenomenon of ethnic integration in Chinese history. The rapid development of Buddhist art was not solely due to faith, but more importantly, to the fusion of culture and ethnicity. Against this diverse backdrop, Central Plains-style Buddhist sculpture emerged, and the image of flying apsaras began to develop in a Sinicized direction, its movements becoming more graceful and delicate. With the opening up of the times, they were gradually depicted as graceful young women, with increasingly prominent feminine characteristics. As Emperor Xiaowen changed the lifestyle of his people, requiring them to speak Mandarin and wear Hanfu (traditional Han clothing), their attire transformed from the early nomadic clothing with narrow collars and short sleeves to the later, looser Hanfu of the Southern Dynasties. The construction of the Yungang Grottoes proceeded concurrently with Emperor Xiaowen's reforms. Subsequently, Emperor Xiaowen moved the capital to Luoyang and initiated the excavation of the Longmen Grottoes. Therefore, the flying apsaras figures in the Longmen Grottoes are an inheritance and development of those in the Yungang Grottoes, shifting from the rugged and mysterious style of Yungang to a more refined and secular style. The figures and clothing of the flying apsaras also changed accordingly. Based on research into the "flying apsaras" images in the Northern Wei Longmen Grottoes, it can be concluded that Emperor Xiaowen's series of reforms resulted in the elegant and refined appearance of the Northern Wei Longmen Grottoes' sculptural art. The origin of the "Central Plains-style flying apsaras" style lies in the Southern Dynasties, which contrasted with the Northern Dynasties. The powerful aristocratic families of the Southern Dynasties held immense power, monopolizing the court and exhibiting a decadent and corrupt lifestyle. They adopted this as their aesthetic ideal, praising and aspiring to this elegant and refined style, thus forming their aesthetic style. After Emperor Xiaowen implemented Sinicization reforms, the Southern Dynasties' aesthetic style spread to the North, where people began to emulate it. Therefore, the elegant and refined Central Plains style of the "flying apsaras" in the Longmen Grottoes of the Northern Wei Dynasty is closely related to the aesthetics of the Southern Dynasties. It is evident that the flying apsaras figures in the Longmen Grottoes of the Northern Wei Dynasty, under the guidance of Buddhist art, underwent Sinicization and presented the "oval face" admired by the Chinese, with their body proportions gradually becoming slender and graceful. Their image almost transformed into that of a beautiful young woman, reflecting the characteristics of the dynasty, lifestyle, and aesthetic style at that time. The evolution of the flying apsaras image is a unique product of the collision, exchange, and integration between the profound Han culture and other cultures of the world. 2.3 A Summary of the Stylistic Features of the "flying apsaras" in the Longmen Grottoes of the Northern Wei Dynasty The flying apsaras images in the Longmen Grottoes of the Northern Wei Dynasty were depicted by craftsmen using a variety of artistic techniques, giving their overall shapes a soft, feminine curve. They also evolved from single flying apsaras to pairs of apsaras. The carving techniques became more detailed and realistic. From their early decorative role, they gradually became an indispensable decorative element in the grottoes, appearing in important locations in Guyang Cave, Binyang Middle Cave, and Lotus Cave. 2.3.1 Guyang Cave – “Slender and Delicateˮ Flying Apsara Design Guyang Cave is the earliest cave carved in the Longmen Grottoes, with a history of 1500 years. It also contains the most inscriptions among the grottoes in China, including the world-famous "Twelve Inscriptions of Longmen" in Wei stele style. The carved Buddha statues are intricate, DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 59
exquisite, and magnificent, with the beautifully carved Buddha statues on the north and south sides showcasing the superb painting and carving skills of the time. Guyang Cave was originally converted from a natural karst cave. The cave is horseshoe-shaped, facing east. The main image on the west wall is Shakyamuni Buddha, with a refined face, hands in the meditation mudra, wearing a flowing robe, seated on a high platform. To the left and right of the main Buddha are the north and south walls, which are carved in three tiers, each with four large niches. The Buddha statues in these niches are exquisitely carved, with beautiful decorative patterns. The "flying apsaras" in this cave are quite different from those before Emperor Xiaowen's reforms; the main differences lie in their posture, decoration, and shape. In Cave 1443, the top of the first niche on the east side of the second tier on the north wall is carved with four slender "flying apsaras," their ribbons fluttering, riding auspicious clouds and flying around the Buddha. The two apsaras at the top of the second niche on the west side of the second tier on the north wall are identical to those in the first niche on the east side. Their bodies are both agile and slender, their clothes thin and clinging to their bodies. As they move with the wind or dance in the breeze, their flowing ribbons flutter up and down, further emphasizing the lines of their abdomens and legs. Even more remarkable is that, because these two apsaras are carved over a relatively large area, their facial expressions are also visible. Their faces are thin, yet they wear smiles, seemingly showing the world their joy at listening to the profound Dharma teachings beside the Buddha. The apsaras on the niches clearly display serene facial expressions. They are slender, half-naked and barefoot, their thin clothing clinging to their bodies, short blouses and long skirts fluttering in the wind, their movements light and graceful, full of power. The apsaras and the floral patterns behind them are high-relief sculptures. The floral decorations accentuate their slender and agile figures, and their attire suggests it is in the style of Han Chinese women, reflecting the influence of Emperor Xiaowen's reforms. Some niches contain multiple groups of apsaras, each facing a different direction, holding different fruits, exuding a free and detached air, with a strong sense of unity. This shows that the artisans of that time had already begun to pay attention to the layout and composition of the apsaras, depicting the dynamism and beauty of the connections between each apsara. Indian cave apsaras are often arranged in pairs or symmetrical groups, emphasizing the fluidity of lines to present a simple and natural image, with the overall composition presented as a group of apsaras. The flying apsaras compositions in Guyang Cave mostly feature combinations of two apsaras, referencing Indian compositional methods. This enriches the artistic expression of the flying apsara statues and demonstrates the craftsmen's devout learning spirit and superb skills. Figure 3. Flying Apsaras on the Niche of Guyang Cave DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 60
2.3.2 Binyang Central Cave – “Delicate and Gracefulˮ Flying Apsara Design Binyang Middle Cave is the second cave to be excavated after Guyang Cave. The patterns inside the cave are mostly lotus, scroll, and cloud motifs. The Buddha statues inside are kind and benevolent, the Bodhisattvas gentle and dignified, and the folds of their robes are neat and dense. The clothing is no longer the right-shoulder-exposing style of the Yungang Grottoes, but has transformed into a more nationalized style of wide-sleeved robes in Chinese Buddhism. During the construction of the three Binyang Caves, due to a palace coup, only Binyang Middle Cave was completed, making the existing "flying apsara" image in Binyang Middle Cave all the more precious. The apsaras on the ceiling of the cave swirl and float around the centrally carved lotus canopy. They have long, slender faces, delicate features, and cherry-like lips. They wear earrings and necklaces, are half-naked, and their bodies gradually lengthen. They hold musical instruments such as flutes, sheng (a type of reed pipe instrument), waist drums, and zheng (a type of zither). Their lower bodies are often L-shaped, while their overall shape is frequently V-shaped. They wear long silk dresses, with ribbons fluttering rhythmically around them. Compared to the apsaras of the Yungang Grottoes, the apsaras are more graceful and delicate, their movements lighter, and their clothing more diverse, increasingly resembling the Buddhist depiction of celestial beings. The artisans of the Binyang Central Cave emphasized the lines of the apsaras, paying particular attention to the dynamic lines of their waists to express their freedom. Through realistic carving techniques, they meticulously depicted the lightness and soaring movement of the apsaras. This rhythmic beauty is a unique aesthetic style of Chinese national art, demonstrating the nationalization of Chinese Buddhism already evident in the Binyang Central Cave. While depicting the dynamic form of the flying apsaras, the artisans also meticulously portrayed their flowing ribbons and skirts. The fluttering ribbons convey the spirit of the apsaras's "flight" and a sacred Buddhist realm. The exaggerated figures and the fluttering ribbons further emphasize the apsaras's relaxed, free, and soaring posture. The flying apsaras image in Binyang Zhongdong already possesses a strong Central Plains style, demonstrating the artisans' efforts to depict a flying apsara art form rich in regional and Central Plains characteristics. Figure 4. The image of "flying apsaras" on the ceiling of the Binyang Central Cave. 2.3.3 Lotus Cave – A flying apsara sculpture with "elegant and refined features" Lotus Cave was carved in the late Northern Wei Dynasty and is named for its unique layout. The huge and exquisite lotus flower on the cave ceiling has three layers of petals that bloom from the inside out. The huge lotus flower makes the cave appear full, vivid and lifelike, showcasing the superb skills of the craftsmen. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 61
Lotus Cave was carved in the second year of the Zheng Guang reign of Emperor Xiaoming 521 AD. It is a horseshoe-shaped cave facing east. A main Buddha statue of Shakyamuni is carved on the west wall, while smaller niches are carved on the north and south walls. Lotus Cave contains many apsaras, but the most striking and distinctive are the six apsaras carved around the lotus flowers on the cave ceiling. Each of these six apsaras is about one meter long, which is relatively rare among caves from the Northern Wei period in the Longmen Grottoes. They stand upright, with their legs forming an approximately 90-degree angle with their bodies, presenting an "L" shape. These apsaras are slender and graceful, with close-fitting robes and long tails flowing behind them, further emphasizing their dynamic and agile nature. The image of the "flying apsara" in this cave is almost identical to that in the Guyang Cave and Binyang Cave, which confirms that the "flying apsara" style of the Longmen Grottoes in the late Northern Wei Dynasty was formed from the day that Cave 1443 was excavated. The large apsaras holding fruits around the lotus flowers on the cave ceiling are delicate and graceful, with slender figures and light, graceful movements. Their legs form a 90-degree angle with their bodies, and their clothing is mostly adorned with circular ornaments. Each apsara is about one meter long, and they appear singly or in groups, transforming the cave from its usual tranquility into a more dynamic one. Following Emperor Xiaowen's Sinicization reforms, the apsaras' clothing also became increasingly Sinicized, gradually shifting towards wide-sleeved robes, fully showcasing the "refined and elegant" style popular in the Northern Wei Dynasty and reflecting the artistic characteristics of the "simple and understated" style of Northern Wei sculpture. The apsaras blend seamlessly with the blooming lotus flowers, combining movement and stillness, highlighting both the magnificence of the lotus and the elegance of the apsaras. This is a masterpiece of apsara art from the Northern Wei period, possessing a strong Central Plains character. It can be seen that the apsara designs in the later Northern Wei period, when the Lotus Cave was built, had fully matured into the "Central Plains style of apsaras." During the Northern Wei Dynasty, the image of the flying apsaras underwent Sinicization, becoming more refined in appearance, slender in figure, and graceful in movement. The artistic expression also gradually became more realistic, exquisite, and fluid. The elegant and graceful image of the flying apsaras embodies the fluidity of life, reflecting the artisans' yearning for freedom. In the later period of the Northern Wei Dynasty, artisans paid more attention to the use of carving techniques in depicting the flying apsaras in the Lotus Cave, shifting from the straight carving methods of the Yungang Grottoes to round carving. The use of various techniques such as round carving, flat carving, relief carving, and line engraving developed in the late Northern Wei period, showcasing the unique characteristics of Chinese art. Figure 5. Flying Apsara Image on the Top of Lotus Cave DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 62
Conceptual Framework Diagram （Source: Compiled from this study） III. Research Methodology 3.1 Research Design This research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of how traditional Miao-Nang cultural symbols can be transformed into modern design elements. The approach includes fieldwork, semiotic analysis, and design practice, which allows for a multi-dimensional exploration of the visual transformation process. Qualitative Research: The qualitative component includes field research, interviews, and semiotic analysis. Fieldwork was conducted in Huanjiang Maonan Autonomous County, where Miao-Nang culture is predominantly practiced. Interviews with local cultural inheritors, artisans, and members of the community were conducted to gather insights into the symbolic meanings of Miao-Nang cultural symbols and the traditional practices associated with them. Semiotic analysis was then used to decode and analyze the cultural meanings embedded within the visual elements, such as the bamboo flower hat and Miao-Nang costume patterns. Quantitative Research: The quantitative component of the study involved design practice. This phase focused on transforming traditional Miao-Nang symbols into modern design prototypes, such as fashion items, product packaging, and branding concepts. The design process was guided by the principles of visual communication theory and cultural semiotics to ensure that the traditional symbols were preserved while adapting them to modern design standards. The effectiveness of these transformations was evaluated through surveys and focus groups, gathering feedback from local artisans, cultural experts, and design professionals. This mixed-methods approach allowed for a balanced exploration of the cultural, semiotic, and design elements involved in the visual transformation process, providing both theoretical and practical insights. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 69
Research Flowchart (Source: Compiled from this study） 3.2 Data Collection Data collection for this research was carried out through several key methods: fieldwork, interviews, semiotic analysis, and design practice. Fieldwork: Field research was conducted in Huanjiang Maonan Autonomous County, where the Miao-Nang community is located. The fieldwork aimed to capture the traditional visual symbols used in Miao-Nang culture, such as the bamboo flower hat and traditional costumes. Photographs and videos were taken to document these visual elements and their symbolic meanings in context. Interviews: Interviews were conducted with local cultural inheritors, artisans, and community members who are familiar with Miao-Nang cultural practices. These interviews provided insights into the cultural significance of the visual symbols and the traditional methods used to create them. The interviews also explored how these symbols are perceived by the local community and the challenges they face in preserving their cultural heritage. Semiotic Analysis: Semiotic analysis was used to decode the cultural symbols embedded in the visual elements. This approach allowed the researchers to identify the underlying meanings of the bamboo flower hat, the geometric patterns on Miao-Nang costumes, and other visual symbols. The analysis was based on semiotic theories such as Peirce's Triadic Model of Semiosis Peirce, 1931 and Barthes' Semiotic Systems Barthes, 1967, which focus on how signs and symbols convey meaning within specific cultural contexts. The semiotic analysis DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 70
helped reveal the cultural narratives embedded in the symbols and provided a theoretical framework for their transformation into modern design formats. Design Practice: In the design practice phase, traditional Miao-Nang visual elements were reinterpreted into modern design prototypes. These prototypes included contemporary fashion items (e.g., clothing, accessories), product packaging, and branding concepts that incorporated the symbolic patterns and meanings of the bamboo flower hat and Miao-Nang costumes. The design process involved iterative prototyping, where each design was refined based on feedback from cultural experts, artisans, and design professionals. The goal was to create designs that respected the cultural integrity of the symbols while making them suitable for contemporary markets. 3.3 Data Analysis Data analysis was conducted using a combination of qualitative analysis (semiotic analysis of visual symbols) and quantitative evaluation (feedback from surveys and focus groups). Semiotic Analysis: The semiotic analysis provided a deeper understanding of the cultural meanings behind the visual elements. Each symbol, such as the bamboo flower hat and the geometric patterns on Miao-Nang costumes, was analyzed for its symbolic significance. The analysis focused on how these symbols are understood within the Miao-Nang cultural context and how they relate to broader themes of nature, spirituality, and community. This analysis formed the foundation for transforming the visual elements into modern design formats. Quantitative Evaluation: The design prototypes were evaluated through surveys and focus groups, which gathered feedback from local artisans, cultural experts, and design professionals. The goal was to assess how well the transformed symbols resonated with the community and whether they retained their cultural significance while appealing to modern design sensibilities. The feedback was analyzed to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the visual transformation met both cultural and aesthetic criteria. The results of the data analysis provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of the visual transformation process, as well as the potential for Miao-Nang cultural symbols to be integrated into global design markets. 3.4 Design Process and Prototype Development The design process followed a structured methodology, which included symbol extraction, cultural semantic analysis, and visual transformation. This process was guided by the principles of visual communication theory, semiotics, and cultural preservation, ensuring that the designs were both innovative and culturally respectful. Symbol Extraction: The first step in the design process was to extract the traditional Miao-Nang symbols, such as the bamboo flower hat and costume patterns. This involved identifying the key visual elements that carried cultural significance and could be adapted for modern design. Cultural Semantic Analysis: Once the symbols were extracted, a cultural semantic analysis was conducted to decode the meanings embedded in the visual elements. This analysis focused on understanding how the symbols functioned within the Miao-Nang cultural context and what they represented in terms of spirituality, nature, and community. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 71
Visual Transformation: The final step was the visual transformation of these symbols into modern design formats. This involved adapting the traditional symbols into contemporary forms, such as digital prints for fashion, simplified graphic patterns for packaging, and branding elements for cultural products. The goal was to retain the cultural essence of the symbols while making them appealing to contemporary audiences. The design process was iterative, with multiple prototypes being created and refined based on feedback from cultural experts and design professionals. The final prototypes were evaluated for their ability to balance cultural authenticity with modern design sensibilities. 3.5 Ethical Considerations Ethical considerations were an important part of this research, particularly when working with cultural heritage and symbolic elements. The researchers ensured that the local community was involved in the process of cultural preservation and transformation. Interviews with local artisans and cultural inheritors were conducted with the consent of the participants, and their perspectives were respected throughout the research process. Furthermore, the research adhered to ethical guidelines regarding the use of cultural symbols. The goal was not to appropriate or commodify the symbols but to reinterpret them in a way that respects their original meanings. The researchers worked closely with the local community to ensure that the transformed symbols were accepted and embraced by the Miao-Nang people. IV. Research Findings and Discussion 4.1 Extraction and Analysis of Miao-Nang Visual Elements The primary aim of this research was to extract and analyze the visual symbols embedded in Miao-Nang culture. Field research was conducted in Huanjiang Maonan Autonomous County, where the Miao-Nang community is predominantly located. The key visual elements identified included the bamboo flower hat, traditional costume patterns, and other cultural artifacts like embroidery and woven textiles. The bamboo flower hat emerged as a central cultural symbol, representing both the vitality of life and the Miao-Nang people's connection to the sun and natural forces. The intricate radiating pattern, woven from bamboo strips, symbolizes the sunʼs rays and life-giving energy. This pattern was found to represent the cyclical nature of life, renewal, and continuity, a concept that is core to the Miao-Nang worldview. It reflects the belief that life is a continuous, interdependent process, symbolizing both personal vitality and collective strength. In addition to the bamboo flower hat, the geometric patterns on Miao-Nang costumes play a critical role in representing the cultural values of fertility, protection, and the spiritual connection to the earth. The patterns include diamonds, spirals, and triangular motifs, which have specific meanings. The diamond shapes symbolize fertility and the nurturing aspect of the earth, while the spirals and triangles signify protection against evil forces. The use of these patterns is not merely aesthetic; they serve to communicate the Miao-Nang peopleʼs spiritual beliefs, particularly the themes of protection, life cycles, and cosmic order. Through extensive analysis, it became evident that these visual elements are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply symbolic. They serve as a visual language that communicates complex cultural values and beliefs related to nature, life, and spirituality. The geometric patterns are interwoven with the Miao-Nang people's cosmology, where each symbol, color, and form contributes to a greater understanding of their relationship with the world. 4.2 Cultural Semantic Analysis DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 72
To understand the meanings embedded in these visual elements, a cultural semiotic analysis was conducted. Semiotic analysis, which studies the relationship between signs and their meanings, is particularly relevant when examining cultural symbols such as the bamboo flower hat and Miao-Nang costume patterns. These symbols operate on two levels: denotation (literal meaning) and connotation (cultural and symbolic meaning). The bamboo flower hat, as a symbol of vitality and the sun, conveys connotations of renewal, energy, and lifeʼs cyclical nature. Its design incorporates radiating lines that metaphorically reflect the sunʼs rays, which are essential for life. The color choices in the hatʼs design also carry symbolic meaning. Traditional Miao-Nang hats often feature earth tones, symbolizing a connection to the land, and bright hues that represent energy and vitality. These colors evoke both spiritual symbolism and practical survival in relation to the natural environment. Similarly, the patterns on Miao-Nang costumes—such as diamonds and spirals—carry deep cultural significance. The diamond shape symbolizes fertility and growth, referencing the cycles of nature and human life. The spiral pattern, often found in the embroidery of Miao-Nang clothing, symbolizes protection and the cyclical nature of existence, where life is continuously renewed. The triangle, on the other hand, is viewed as a symbol of strength and stability, rooted in the earth and the natural world. Through this semiotic approach, it became clear that the traditional symbols of Miao-Nang culture are more than aesthetic choices—they are deeply tied to the community's worldview, spiritual beliefs, and relationship with nature. These symbols communicate a complex set of values related to harmony with the earth, spiritual well-being, and the continuity of life. 4.3 International Visual Transformation of Miao-Nang Culture The next phase of the research focused on the visual transformation of these traditional Miao-Nang symbols into modern design formats. The goal was to retain the cultural essence of the bamboo flower hat and costume patterns while adapting them to contemporary design standards. This was achieved through a series of design prototypes that incorporated the extracted visual symbols into modern design contexts, such as fashion, packaging, and branding. The design of fashion prototypes involved incorporating the geometric patterns from Miao-Nang costumes into contemporary clothing. Traditional patterns, like diamonds and spirals, were simplified and stylized to fit modern aesthetics while preserving their original cultural meanings. For instance, the diamond pattern was adapted into minimalist prints for clothing, while the spiral pattern was used in embroidered details on modern garments. Bright earth tones were combined with more subdued colors to align with current global fashion trends while maintaining the cultural vibrancy of Miao-Nang traditions. The bamboo flower hatʼs radiating pattern was reinterpreted in product packaging design, where it was used as a graphic element to evoke a sense of vitality and energy. This design maintained the circular shape and radiating lines of the hat, which symbolize renewal and life, while simplifying the pattern to suit the streamlined aesthetics of contemporary packaging design. This adaptation demonstrated that it is possible to retain the cultural symbolism of the bamboo flower hat while adapting it for a commercial context. The branding prototypes incorporated elements of Miao-Nang visual culture, such as the geometric patterns and the radiating lines of the bamboo flower hat. These elements were integrated into the design of logos, product packaging, and marketing materials. The goal was to create a cultural identity for the products that reflected both their cultural origins and their modern appeal. The research showed that Miao-Nang symbols, when adapted thoughtfully, could be reintroduced into contemporary design without losing their cultural significance. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 73
4.4 Comparative Analysis: Successful Visual Transformations from Other Cultures A key aspect of this research was to compare the visual transformation of Miao-Nang cultural symbols with similar transformations from other cultures. Previous studies on the adaptation of African textiles, Native American symbols, and Indigenous Australian art into modern design provided a valuable framework for understanding how cultural symbols can be transformed for global audiences while maintaining their cultural meanings. For instance, the adaptation of African textiles into modern fashion and home decor has been a successful example of how traditional symbols can be reimagined for contemporary design. African textiles, such as kente cloth, have been adapted into global fashion lines, maintaining the cultural symbolism of the patterns while meeting modern design standards Akel & Shukla, 2021. Similarly, Native American symbols have been incorporated into contemporary fashion, with brands utilizing traditional motifs in jewelry, clothing, and accessories, often blending the old with the new Zhu & Liu, 2022. The visual transformation of Miao-Nang symbols, particularly the bamboo flower hat and the geometric patterns on Miao-Nang costumes, can follow similar principles. By simplifying and abstracting these symbols while retaining their cultural meanings, they can be successfully integrated into modern design contexts that appeal to both local and international markets. This comparative analysis highlights the potential for Miao-Nang cultural symbols to be adapted for global markets in a way that preserves their authenticity and cultural significance. The research suggests that design innovation plays a crucial role in this process, allowing for the creative reinterpretation of traditional symbols while maintaining their cultural essence. V. Conclusion and Recommendations 5.1 Research Summary This research has explored the transformation of traditional Miao-Nang cultural symbols, such as the bamboo flower hat and Miao-Nang costume patterns, into modern design formats that retain their cultural significance while appealing to contemporary global markets. Through fieldwork, semiotic analysis, and design practice, the study has demonstrated that Miao-Nang visual symbols can be reinterpreted for modern design without losing their cultural essence. The design prototypes created as part of this research have shown that these symbols can be effectively integrated into contemporary design, including fashion, product packaging, and branding, offering a model for the sustainable preservation and dissemination of cultural heritage. The findings of this research suggest that Miao-Nang visual symbols, when adapted thoughtfully, have the potential to engage global audiences and promote cultural sustainability. The transformation of these symbols involves a delicate balance between tradition and innovation, where cultural integrity is maintained while making the symbols accessible and relevant to contemporary design sensibilities. 5.2 Research Contributions The research contributes to the fields of cultural semiotics, visual communication, and design innovation by providing a framework for the visual transformation of traditional ethnic symbols. It offers a comprehensive methodology for designers seeking to integrate cultural heritage into modern design practices, ensuring that traditional symbols are preserved while adapting them to contemporary markets. The study also contributes to the growing field of cultural sustainability, demonstrating how design can be used as a tool for preserving and communicating cultural heritage in a globalized world. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 74
5.3 Research Limitations and Future Prospects While this study provides valuable insights into the visual transformation of Miao-Nang cultural symbols, several limitations exist. The design prototypes developed in this research were focused on a limited range of design contexts, primarily fashion, packaging, and branding. Future research could expand the scope to include other design industries, such as digital media, architecture, and interior design, to explore how Miao-Nang culture can be integrated into other design disciplines. Additionally, the study was limited to the Miao-Nang community in Huanjiang Maonan Autonomous County. Future research could explore the visual transformation of Miao-Nang symbols across different Miao-Nang communities and other ethnic minority groups in China to understand how these symbols are adapted and interpreted in different contexts. 5.4 Recommendations Based on the findings, several recommendations are proposed: Collaborative Design Approach: Designers should collaborate with cultural experts and local communities to ensure that traditional symbols are accurately represented and culturally appropriate. This will help maintain the integrity of the cultural symbols and ensure their relevance to the community. Expanding the Scope of Design Transformation: Future research should explore how Miao-Nang cultural symbols can be adapted for digital media, interactive design, and public spaces to engage a wider audience and enhance the cultural impact. Cultural Education and Awareness: Efforts should be made to educate younger generations about the cultural significance of these visual elements, fostering an appreciation for cultural heritage and encouraging its preservation through design. Global Promotion of Miao-Nang Culture: Miao-Nang cultureʼs visual symbols should be promoted internationally through design exhibitions, fashion shows, and cultural events. This would help raise awareness of Miao-Nang heritage and create opportunities for cultural exchange. References 1. Akel, M., & Shukla, A. 2021. Designing cultural heritage: From traditional motifs to modern fashion. International Journal of Design and Culture, 182, 124137. https://doi.org/10.1080/24723920.2021.1923945 2. Bennett, M. J. 1986. A developmental approach to training for intercultural sensitivity. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 102, 179196. https://doi.org/10.1016/0147176786900052 3. Barthes, R. 1967. Elements of semiology. Hill and Wang. 4. Bristow, D., & Ng, K. 2015. Re-examining Native American motifs in design: Cultural appropriation and authenticity. Design Studies, 432, 99115. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.destud.2015.02.003 5. Chen, G. M., & Starosta, W. J. 2000. Communication competence and cross-cultural adaptation: Theoretical and empirical perspectives. In R. L. Jackson Ed., The handbook of intercultural communication (pp. 423440. Sage Publications. 6. Deardorff, D. K. 2006. The sage handbook of intercultural competence. Sage Publications. 7. Gombrich, E. H. 1960. Art and illusion: A study in the psychology of pictorial representation. Phaidon Press. 8. Hall, S. 1980. Encoding/decoding. In D. Held & J. B. Thompson Eds., Culture, media, language: Working papers in cultural studies, 197279 (pp. 128138. Hutchinson. 9. He, Y., & Juysukha, S. 2025. Research on the integration of Lion Dance Culture into Landscape. Proceedings of the First International Conference on Cultural and Arts Design. Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 75
10. Halbwachs, M. 1992. The collective memory L. Coser, Trans.). HarperCollins. 11. Hernández, C., & Llovet, S. 2020. Adapting African textiles into global fashion: Cultural pride and luxury. Fashion and Cultural Studies Journal, 124, 205217. https://doi.org/10.1002/fcjs.2020.0472 12. Hsu, T. S. L. 2014. The ethics of cultural appropriation in modern design. Journal of Design Ethics, 221, 3040. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jde.2014.05.001 13. Margolin, V. 1997. Designing culture: The work of William Morris. HarperCollins. 14. Piller, I. 2011. Intercultural communication: A critical introduction. Edinburgh University Press. 15. Said, E. W. 1978. Orientalism. Pantheon Books. 16. Wang, L., & Zhang, H. 2019. Cultural symbolism in ethnic art: A case study of Miao-Nang design. International Journal of Visual Communication, 102, 6780. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijvc.12345 17. Zhang, M., & Xie, J. 2020. The role of visual culture in preserving ethnic heritage: The case of Miao-Nang culture. Journal of Cultural Heritage Studies, 51, 3447. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jchs.2020.02.006 18. Zhu, L., & Liu, X. 2022. The visual semiotics of cultural symbols in ethnic design: A comparison of Miao-Nang and Zhuang art forms. Design Studies, 433, 5572. https://doi.org/10.1080/00157308.2022.1885667 DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 76
Innovative Design Approaches for Huashan Rock Art: Cultural Symbol Transformation in Contemporary Product Design 1ShengHong Wen, 2Noppadon Sangwalpetch 1,2Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Thailand AbstractHuashan Rock Art, located along the Zuojiang River Basin in Guangxi, China, is an ancient and culturally significant site that features petroglyphs created by the Luoyue people during the Warring States and Eastern Han periods. These artworks are not only rich in historical value but also provide a window into the spiritual beliefs, rituals, and social structures of the time. However, despite their importance, these symbols are rarely integrated into modern product design, resulting in a lost opportunity to preserve and communicate their cultural significance in contemporary contexts. This study seeks to address this gap by investigating how traditional cultural symbols, such as those found in Huashan Rock Art, can be transformed into modern product designs while maintaining their cultural integrity. The research proposes a systematic design methodology for extracting visual symbols from the rock art and translating them into products that maintain their cultural meaning while appealing to modern consumers. The study also examines the challenges and opportunities presented by cultural preservation and design innovation. The findings suggest that cultural symbol transformation can serve as a bridge between historical preservation and modern product design, offering new methods for cultural revitalization. Keywords: Huashan Rock Art, Cultural Symbol Transformation, Product Design, Cultural Preservation, Semiotics, Modern Design, Visual Culture I. Introduction 1.1 Research Background The Huashan Rock Art, located in the Zuojiang River Basin of Guangxi, China, is one of the most important examples of ancient petroglyphs. These petroglyphs, dating back over two millennia, are not only crucial as artistic expressions but also represent a profound cultural narrative. The Luoyue people, who lived in the region during the Warring States and Eastern Han periods, left behind visual symbols that encoded their spiritual beliefs, rituals, and their connection to the cosmos. The petroglyphs depict human figures, celestial beings, animals, and symbolic motifs that illustrate the belief systems of the time He & Juysukha, 2025. However, as the world becomes increasingly globalized and modernized, these symbols have not found a significant place in contemporary visual product design. While there have been some attempts to replicate these symbols in decorative forms, such efforts often fail to convey the deeper meanings behind these symbols or to integrate them into modern design contexts. As design practices evolve, the challenge of incorporating cultural symbols into contemporary products without diluting their meaning becomes more pressing. Modern design tends to favor simplicity and mass appeal, which may undermine the rich cultural significance embedded in traditional symbols. This issue is particularly evident in Huashan Rock Art, where the symbolsʼ original meanings risk being lost during their adaptation into modern products. Designers working with such symbols must strike a delicate balance between aesthetic innovation and cultural authenticity Zhang & Xie, 2020. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 77
Moreover, the growing awareness of cultural heritage preservation underscores the urgency of ensuring that traditional cultural symbols are not lost or misinterpreted. As a result, there is an increasing need to recontextualize these ancient symbols for contemporary audiences while ensuring that they are preserved as part of the cultural legacy. The integration of visual culture and product design can provide a platform for this preservation, but it requires a systematic methodology that bridges traditional meanings with modern aesthetic demands. This research is driven by the need to explore how Huashan Rock Art symbols can be translated into modern design in a way that maintains their cultural integrity. By using cultural semiotics as the theoretical framework, this study aims to develop a design methodology that facilitates this translation while respecting the cultural significance of the original artwork. 1.2 Research Problem The central research problem addressed by this study is: How can the visual symbols from Huashan Rock Art be effectively transformed into modern product designs while preserving their cultural significance? This research problem arises from the tension between cultural preservation and the demands of modern design. Traditional cultural symbols, particularly those from ancient rock art, face challenges in being translated into modern design products. In many cases, the symbolic meanings of these cultural elements may be oversimplified, misinterpreted, or lost altogether during the design process. This is especially true when traditional symbols are incorporated into products that prioritize visual appeal over cultural accuracy. The challenge, therefore, lies in developing a design methodology that enables the effective translation of these symbols into contemporary design formats while maintaining the original meanings and cultural relevance. This process must involve more than just aesthetic adaptation; it must ensure that the cultural context of these symbols is preserved and communicated through the design, making them meaningful to modern audiences while respecting their historical context. 1.3 Research Objective The primary objective of this study is: To explore how Huashan Rock Art symbols can be transformed into modern product designs that retain their cultural significance, using a systematic design methodology based on cultural semiotics. This objective reflects the core challenge of balancing modern design innovation with the preservation of cultural authenticity. The study seeks to provide a practical framework for designers who aim to integrate traditional cultural symbols into contemporary design products, ensuring that the symbols' original meanings are not lost or misrepresented in the process. The specific goals of the study are as follows: To extract and analyze key visual symbols from Huashan Rock Art, identifying their symbolic meanings and their cultural significance.To develop a systematic design methodology that reinterprets these symbols for modern design, ensuring they retain their cultural integrity while aligning with modern aesthetic trends.To assess the marketability of the transformed designs through expert feedback, consumer surveys, and focus groups, ensuring that the designs resonate with modern consumers without compromising cultural authenticity. 1.4 Research Scope This study focuses on the visual transformation of cultural symbols from Huashan Rock Art into modern product designs. The research encompasses the following key areas: DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 78
Prototype: The design concepts will be turned into physical prototypes, allowing for visual testing and feedback from both experts and consumers. Prototypes will be designed to be both functional and aesthetic, integrating the cultural symbols in ways that align with modern design principles such as minimalism and user-centered design. Test: The final stage involves testing the prototypes with experts, consumers, and focus groups to assess the products' aesthetic appeal, cultural relevance, and market potential. This iterative process will ensure that the designs are refined and adjusted based on feedback. The design transformation process emphasizes a collaborative approach to ensure that the cultural symbols are accurately translated into modern design formats. This process also involves balancing creativity with cultural preservation, ensuring that the transformed designs retain their original meaning while meeting the demands of modern consumers. 3.4 Data Collection Methods To assess the effectiveness of the transformed designs, this study will employ a combination of qualitative data collection methods. These include expert feedback, focus groups, and consumer surveys. Each method provides a unique insight into how well the transformed symbols have been received by various stakeholders. Expert Feedback: Experts in cultural heritage, design, and anthropology will be invited to review the product prototypes. Their feedback will focus on the cultural integrity of the transformed symbols, ensuring that the symbols' original meanings are preserved. Experts will also provide recommendations for improving the designs to enhance their cultural sensitivity. Focus Groups: Focus groups consisting of both design professionals and cultural consultants will be conducted. These groups will assess the aesthetic appeal and cultural resonance of the prototypes. Participants will provide feedback on how the designs align with modern tastes while respecting the cultural essence of the original symbols. Consumer Surveys: A broader consumer survey will be administered to gather quantitative data on the marketability of the products. The survey will assess consumer perceptions of the designs in terms of their aesthetic appeal, cultural relevance, and functional utility. It will also explore consumer interest in purchasing products that are inspired by Huashan Rock Art. 3.5 Analysis of Data The qualitative data collected from expert feedback, focus groups, and consumer surveys will be analyzed using thematic analysis. This method will identify patterns and themes that emerge from the feedback, allowing the researcher to understand how effectively the transformed symbols maintain their cultural integrity and how well they resonate with modern audiences. The analysis will also identify any areas where the designs can be further refined. Thematic analysis will be used to categorize feedback into key themes related to the design's cultural sensitivity, aesthetic appeal, and functional effectiveness. This will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the designs and highlight any potential areas for improvement. 3.6 Limitations of the Study Despite the robust research methodology, there are some limitations to this study: Subjectivity: Interpretation of cultural symbols can vary, which may influence how designers and consumers perceive the transformed symbols. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 85
Cultural Sensitivity: Despite careful attention to cultural accuracy, there is a risk of misrepresentation or oversimplification of symbols during the transformation process. Market Variability: The findings of consumer surveys may be affected by regional preferences and cultural contexts that are not fully captured by the research. 3.7 Conclusion This chapter provided a detailed overview of the research methodology, including the symbol extraction, semiotic analysis, and design transformation processes. The methodology focuses on maintaining cultural integrity while adapting Huashan Rock Art symbols into modern product designs. The next chapter will present the results of the study and analyze the effectiveness of the design transformations based on expert feedback, focus group discussions, and consumer surveys. IV. Research Findings 4.1 Introduction to Findings This chapter presents the detailed findings derived from the multimethod research approach adopted in this study. The core objective—to understand how Huashan Rock Art symbols can be transformed into contemporary product designs while preserving their cultural significance—requires a multilayered analysis that examines not only the visual structure of the symbols but also the cultural motivations, historical contexts, and user perceptions. Findings from semiotic analysis, design transformation experiments, expert evaluations, focus groups, and consumer surveys are synthesized to construct a comprehensive understanding of the potentials and limitations of cultural symbol transformation in design. The findings reveal that the symbolic complexity of Huashan Rock Art demands a careful and responsible methodological framework. The transformation process must simultaneously respect cultural authenticity and meet contemporary aesthetic and functional requirements. Analyses confirm that the cultural meanings embedded in the symbols—ritualistic power, spiritual cosmology, hierarchical social structures, sacrificial significance, and agricultural metaphors—are central to the transferability of these motifs into modern design contexts Zhang & Xie, 2020; Wang & Zhang, 2019. The results also highlight specific symbol categories that demonstrate higher adaptability for modern product applications. 4.2 Findings from Semiotic Analysis of Huashan Rock Art Symbols 4.2.1 Symbol Categories Identified Through an extensive decoding process using Barthesʼ 1967 semiotic framework, four major categories of Huashan Rock Art symbols were identified: Human Figures and Ritual Gestures These symbols are among the most frequently depicted in Huashan Rock Art. They often display exaggerated body postures—arms raised, legs bent, or in dynamic movement—interpreted by scholars as representations of ritual dance, spiritual offerings, or cosmic communication He & Juysukha, 2025. The repeated depiction of these gestures suggests social unity and collective spiritual participation. Animal Figures and Totems Animals were found to symbolize strength, fertility, spiritual guardianship, and ecological relationships. Commonly appearing animals include birds, deer, and fish, each carrying nuanced symbolic meanings tied to agricultural cycles and cosmological beliefs. Geometrical and Abstract Motifs DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 86
Geometric forms—triangles, spirals, radiating lines, and concentric circles—served cosmological and ritual functions. These motifs represent sun worship, ritual energy, or community cohesion, according to archaeological interpretations. Landscape and Environmental Symbols Some motifs appear to reflect the environmental surroundings of the Zuojiang River Basin, including mountains, water waves, and terraced lines symbolizing agricultural practices. These symbols highlight the intimate relationship between the Luoyue people and their ecological environment. These categories reinforce that Huashan Rock Art is not merely decorative but a visual language system encoding worldview, identity, and ritual behavior. 4.2.2 Interpretation of Symbolic Meaning The semiotic decoding reveals three core thematic meanings embedded in Huashan Rock Art: 1 Cosmological Order and Sun Worship Numerous symbols reflect cosmological narratives—such as radiating lines symbolizing the sun or spiral motifs representing cycles of life. These symbols demonstrate an ancient belief system rooted in celestial observation and natural rhythms. This finding aligns with the work of Zhu & Liu 2022, who note that cyclical geometric motifs across ethnic art forms represent shared cosmological views. 2 Social Hierarchy and Ritual Authority Human figures with exaggerated headpieces or elevated positions likely indicate social hierarchy. Their depiction in leadership gestures suggests ritual authority or clan leadership. These insights align with anthropological interpretations of the Luoyue culture. 3 Ecological Relationship and Agricultural Identity Symbols featuring fish, water waves, or terraced landforms demonstrate a dependence on riverine resources and agricultural life. These findings support Wang & Zhang 2019, who emphasized cultural symbolism as intertwined with ecological lifestyle. 4.2.3 Implications for Design Transformation These findings reveal that certain categories of Huashan symbols exhibit higher adaptability for modern design: Symbol Type Cultural Meaning Transformation Potential Geometric motifs Ritual, cosmology Very high—easily stylized and abstracted Animal totems Strength, ecology High—appealing for fashion, souvenirs Human rituals Social unity Moderate—requires sensitive interpretation Landscape symbols Environment Moderate to high—suitable for pattern design Geometric motifs are found to be the most versatile and least culturally sensitive for modern reinterpretation, while human ritual symbols require careful transformation to avoid misrepresentation. 4.3 Findings from Design Transformation Experiments 4.3.1 Transformation Principles Emerged During Experimentation Through iterative prototyping, several principles emerged that enhance cultural fidelity while optimizing contemporary design relevance. These include: DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 87
1 Principle of Symbolic Integrity The original proportion, rhythm, or essential line structure of symbols must remain recognizable. Over-simplification or extreme stylization risks erasing cultural meaning Li, 2020. 2 Principle of Contextual Adaptability Symbols gain new relevance when integrated into culturally appropriate product contexts. Ritual motifs, for instance, may resonate better in cultural products rather than strictly commercial consumer goods. 3 Principle of Cultural Transparency Designs should communicate the cultural story through accompanying narrative elements—labels, product descriptions, or packaging that explains symbol origins. 4 Principle of Aesthetic Harmonization The transformation must harmonize between traditional complexity and modern minimalism. This balance enables wider consumer acceptance Hernández & Llovet, 2020. 4.3.2 Product Categories Tested The research tested symbol integration into four major product categories: Fashion and Textile Design Home Décor and Interior Objects Cultural Souvenirs Digital Media and Graphic Applications Each category yielded unique findings, which we elaborate further in the next section. 4.3.3 Detailed Findings from Each Product Category 1 Fashion and Textile Design Huashanʼs geometric patterns transformed particularly well into repeating motifs suitable for: scarves garment trims handbags textile prints Participants praised the visual rhythm, cultural uniqueness, and contemporary appeal of these designs. Experts noted that geometric motifs preserve meaning even when abstracted. 2 Home Décor and Interior Objects Symbols applied to: ceramic vases lampshades decorative panels cushion patterns These designs created a sense of “cultural sophistication,ˮ aligning with global consumer preferences for artisanal aesthetics. 3 Cultural Souvenirs Participants showed strong interest in small-scale items: bookmarks coasters DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 88
keychains postcards These items allow symbolic authenticity to be retained without excessive transformation. 4 Digital Media Applications Symbol applications in: UI iconography wallpaper patterns brand identity elements Experts expressed caution, noting that some ritual symbols might lose meaning when isolated from context. 4.4 Expert Evaluation Findings Expert evaluation plays a crucial role in assessing the cultural integrity and design effectiveness of the transformed Huashan Rock Art symbols. In this section, feedback from cultural experts, design professionals, and anthropologists is presented, focusing on how well the transformed symbols maintain their original cultural meaning and whether they are successfully adapted to modern design contexts. The expert evaluation process helps ensure that the symbolic meanings of these cultural elements are preserved during the design transformation. 4.4.1 Evaluation Criteria The experts were asked to evaluate the product prototypes based on the following criteria: Cultural Authenticity: Whether the transformed symbols remain true to their original cultural meaning and context. Aesthetic Appeal: Whether the transformed symbols align with modern design trends and are visually appealing to contemporary consumers. Functionality: Whether the products are functional and practical for everyday use. Market Viability: Whether the transformed designs would be accepted by global markets, taking into account current consumer preferences for cultural products. 4.4.2 Expert Feedback on Specific Product Categories Fashion and Textile Designs Experts praised the use of geometric motifs in fashion items, particularly scarves and garments. They noted that these symbols, when abstracted slightly, retained their cultural resonance while adapting well to modern minimalism. However, they emphasized that human figure symbols, which represent ritual gestures, required more care to avoid oversimplification. One expert remarked: “The geometric motifs are easy to adapt to contemporary fashion trends without losing cultural significance. The human figures, though, require more contextualization to preserve their ritual meanings." Home Décor Experts evaluated home décor items such as ceramic vases and wall panels, where Huashan symbols were incorporated as decorative patterns. These designs were considered highly effective in maintaining cultural relevance, with symbolic integrity preserved in abstract forms. However, experts noted that the landscape motifs, often associated with nature and ecology, needed to be carefully reinterpreted to ensure that their spiritual significance was not lost. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 89
Cultural Souvenirs Experts were highly positive about the use of Huashan symbols in souvenir items, such as keychains and postcards. The products were seen as effective ways to introduce cultural heritage to modern consumers. Experts noted that small-scale items could retain cultural meaning without overwhelming the consumer with too much symbolism. Digital Media For digital products, such as UI icons and wallpapers, experts expressed caution. While they acknowledged the potential of Huashan symbols to enhance digital media designs, they warned that ritualistic symbols, such as those associated with spiritual beliefs, may lose their depth when abstracted for digital interfaces. Experts suggested providing additional narrative context in digital formats to ensure that users fully understand the significance of these symbols. 4.4.3 Expert Evaluation Summary Overall, experts agreed that the geometric and animal motifs were the easiest to transform while maintaining their cultural significance. In contrast, human figures and landscape symbols required more careful adaptation to ensure the preservation of their spiritual meanings. Experts also emphasized the need for educational context to accompany the products, ensuring that consumers understand the cultural significance behind the transformed symbols. 4.5 Focus Group Findings Focus groups were conducted with a diverse set of participants, including design professionals, cultural experts, and consumers who were familiar with cultural heritage products. The primary goal of the focus groups was to gather qualitative data on how the transformed Huashan Rock Art symbols were perceived in terms of their aesthetic appeal, cultural relevance, and market potential. 4.5.1 Focus Group Methodology The focus groups were divided into two categories: Design Professionals and Cultural Experts: A group consisting of designers, artists, and cultural consultants with expertise in cultural heritage and design. They were asked to evaluate the prototypes based on cultural sensitivity, aesthetic quality, and design innovation. Consumers Familiar with Cultural Products: A group of consumers who regularly purchase cultural or heritage-inspired products. They were asked to evaluate the prototypes based on consumer interest, marketability, and perceived cultural value. Each group was given the opportunity to provide feedback on the prototypes through guided discussions and individual responses. Participants were also asked to rate each product prototype on a scale of 1 to 10 for aesthetic appeal, cultural relevance, and functional quality. 4.5.2 Key Findings from Focus Groups Design Professionals and Cultural Experts Aesthetic Appeal: The geometric symbols were widely appreciated for their modern aesthetic appeal. Participants highlighted that these motifs were universally recognizable and could easily be incorporated into a variety of product categories, from fashion to home décor. They also noted that the geometric abstraction preserved the cultural essence while fitting within contemporary design trends. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 90
Cultural Relevance: While participants generally felt that animal totems and geometric patterns were successfully recontextualized, they expressed concerns about the transformation of human figures. Experts noted that ritualistic and spiritual symbols needed further contextualization in order to avoid misunderstandings or misinterpretations. Functional Quality: Experts expressed a preference for designs that could be used in everyday products, such as scarves and ceramics. They emphasized the need for products to not only look aesthetically pleasing but also be functional in daily use. Consumers Familiar with Cultural Products Marketability: Consumers showed strong interest in purchasing fashion and home décor items that incorporated Huashan Rock Art symbols. They appreciated the opportunity to own products that celebrated cultural heritage. However, they expressed concerns about the over-simplification of human figure symbols and suggested that these products could benefit from additional cultural storytelling or explanations to enhance the cultural experience. Cultural Perception: Participants appreciated the cultural value embedded in the products and felt that the symbols helped them connect with a unique cultural heritage. However, some participants questioned whether the symbols were authentically represented, particularly in the digital media prototypes, where the abstracted ritual symbols were seen as too distant from their original form. 4.5.3 Focus Group Summary Focus group participants were generally positive about the aesthetic appeal and cultural relevance of the transformed symbols. However, they emphasized the importance of cultural sensitivity and educational context to ensure that consumers understood the meanings behind the symbols. There was consensus that geometric patterns and animal motifs worked best for modern transformation, while human figures and ritualistic symbols required further refinement to preserve their cultural integrity. 4.6 Consumer Survey Findings The consumer survey aimed to gather quantitative data on the market appeal of the transformed products. The survey was distributed to a broad sample of consumers who regularly purchase cultural products or artisanal items. The survey asked participants to evaluate the products based on aesthetic appeal, cultural relevance, and purchase intent. 4.6.1 Survey Methodology The survey was distributed online, and responses were collected from a sample of 500 consumers. The survey used a Likert scale 15 for respondents to rate various aspects of the products, including: Aesthetic appeal Cultural relevance Functionality Likelihood of purchase 4.6.2 Key Findings from Consumer Surveys Aesthetic Appeal: The geometric patterns received the highest ratings for aesthetic appeal, with 75% of respondents rating them as “very appealingˮ or “appealing.ˮ Animal motifs were also rated positively, with 70% of respondents finding them visually attractive. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 91
Cultural Relevance: Human figure symbols were rated lower for cultural relevance, with only 45% of respondents feeling that these symbols maintained their cultural authenticity after transformation. However, landscape symbols received higher ratings for cultural relevance, with 68% of respondents indicating that these symbols felt culturally authentic. Purchase Intent: The highest purchase intent was for fashion products (scarves, bags), followed by home décor items. About 60% of respondents expressed interest in purchasing products that incorporated Huashan Rock Art symbols, particularly in the context of souvenir items or cultural memorabilia. Conclusion of Part 1 The findings from the expert evaluation, focus groups, and consumer surveys provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of transforming Huashan Rock Art symbols into modern product designs. The research confirms that symbols such as geometric motifs and animal totems are the most adaptable for modern design while maintaining their cultural integrity. Human figures and ritualistic symbols, however, require more careful transformation to preserve their cultural depth. 4.7 Comprehensive Synthesis of Findings This section synthesizes the findings from the expert evaluations, focus groups, and consumer surveys, bringing together the insights into how the Huashan Rock Art symbols were transformed into modern products. The synthesis will focus on the effectiveness of the transformation, balancing cultural preservation and design innovation. Additionally, it will identify key areas where improvements are needed and propose recommendations for future applications of cultural symbols in modern design. 4.7.1 Strengths of Symbol Transformation From the data gathered, it is clear that the geometric motifs and animal totems from Huashan Rock Art were the most successful in retaining cultural relevance while being adapted for modern design. These motifs were particularly appreciated for their visual appeal and adaptability across different product categories, including fashion items, home décor, and cultural souvenirs. The geometric patterns, in particular, were found to be versatile and easily integrated into contemporary design while maintaining their symbolic meanings related to cosmology and ritualistic practices. Participants in both the focus groups and consumer surveys expressed strong interest in purchasing products that incorporated these geometric patterns and animal motifs. These designs, while rooted in tradition, were seen as modern and stylish, indicating that there is a demand for culturally informed products that are also in line with current design trends. 4.7.2 Challenges in Human Figure Symbol Transformation The transformation of human figures and ritualistic motifs posed more challenges. While these symbols held significant cultural and spiritual meaning, they were often misinterpreted or oversimplified during the design process. Human figure symbols, in particular, were considered difficult to adapt without losing their ritualistic significance. Focus group participants and experts alike expressed concerns that these symbols, when abstracted too much, lost their deeper meaning and connection to spiritual practices. Experts suggested that additional context was needed to fully communicate the cultural and ritualistic depth of these symbols. As Li 2020 notes, symbols related to spiritual beliefs are especially sensitive to reinterpretation. Therefore, careful consideration should be given to DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 92
how these symbols are presented in products, with explanatory narratives or contextual design elements included to ensure cultural authenticity. 4.7.3 Market Potential and Consumer Perception The consumer surveys revealed that products featuring culturally meaningful designs were particularly appealing to individuals interested in heritage-inspired items. Home décor and souvenirs featuring Huashan Rock Art symbols were rated highly in terms of purchase intent, with many participants expressing a preference for functional yet culturally significant products. However, some consumers raised concerns about the over-simplification of symbols, particularly in digital media applications. The market potential for cultural heritage-inspired products is evident, particularly in categories like fashion and home décor. However, it is crucial that these products maintain a balance between aesthetic appeal and cultural relevance. The findings suggest that simplified symbols, when accompanied by educational context or narratives, have a greater chance of succeeding in the global market, as they provide both aesthetic value and a cultural experience. 4.7.4 Recommendations for Future Design Applications Based on the findings, several recommendations for future design applications of cultural symbols are proposed: Contextualization: Ensure that human figure symbols and ritualistic motifs are accompanied by contextual explanations or narratives to preserve their spiritual and cultural meanings. Iterative Design Process: Use a collaborative approach involving cultural experts and designers to ensure that the transformed symbols stay true to their cultural roots. Cross-Cultural Communication: Focus on cross-cultural communication by integrating culturally informed products into global design markets, ensuring that the symbolic meanings are communicated in ways that resonate with modern consumers. Market Segmentation: Consider diverse markets and consumer segments, focusing on functional and aesthetic designs that incorporate cultural symbols in a way that appeals to contemporary tastes while educating consumers about the cultural heritage behind the symbols. 4.8 Chapter Summary In this chapter, we have presented the findings derived from the semiotic analysis, design transformation experiments, expert evaluations, focus groups, and consumer surveys. The findings confirm that Huashan Rock Art symbols, particularly geometric patterns and animal motifs, can be successfully transformed into modern products while retaining their cultural integrity. However, the transformation of human figure symbols and ritualistic motifs presents challenges, requiring careful attention to cultural sensitivity and contextualization. The research suggests that culturally inspired products have strong market potential, particularly when accompanied by educational narratives and functional design. The next chapter will discuss the implications of these findings for cultural heritage preservation, design practice, and future research directions. V. Discussion and Conclusion 5.1 Introduction to Discussion DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 93
In this chapter, the key findings from the research are discussed in relation to the research objectives and existing literature. The primary aim of this study was to explore how the visual symbols from Huashan Rock Art could be transformed into modern product designs while maintaining their cultural significance. The discussion will cover the effectiveness of the design transformation process, the challenges encountered in adapting the symbols, and the implications of these findings for design practice and cultural preservation. This chapter will also provide a critical evaluation of the study's methodology, outline its limitations, and offer recommendations for future research and practical applications. 5.2 Summary of Key Findings The findings of this study indicate that the Huashan Rock Art symbols can be successfully transformed into modern product designs that are both aesthetically appealing and culturally meaningful. Key findings from the research include: Geometric and Animal Motifs: These symbols were found to be highly adaptable to modern design, retaining their cultural relevance while aligning with contemporary design trends. Geometric patterns were particularly well-received across product categories such as fashion, home décor, and cultural souvenirs. These symbols demonstrated strong market potential due to their universal appeal and ease of integration into modern products. Human Figures and Ritualistic Symbols: These symbols posed a greater challenge in terms of transformation. While they are rich in cultural meaning, particularly relating to spiritual beliefs and ritual practices, they were often perceived as oversimplified or misrepresented when abstracted. The study found that these symbols require additional contextualization and narrative support to ensure their cultural integrity is preserved. Consumer Interest and Market Viability: The survey results confirmed a strong interest in culturally inspired products, particularly in the fashion and home décor categories. However, there was less interest in digital media applications of the symbols, as ritualistic symbols were found to lose their depth and meaning when simplified for digital interfaces. Cultural Preservation and Design Sensitivity: Experts and consumers alike emphasized the importance of cultural sensitivity in the design process. It was essential that the transformed symbols maintained their cultural depth and spiritual significance, even as they were adapted for modern products. Including explanatory narratives alongside the products was found to enhance consumer understanding and market acceptance. 5.3 Interpretation of Findings The findings from this research provide several key insights into the cultural symbol transformation process: Symbol Adaptation Requires Balancing Innovation and Authenticity The study revealed that symbols like geometric patterns and animal motifs can be easily adapted to modern design without losing their cultural significance. These symbols are visual and universally recognizable, making them more amenable to stylization for modern products. This finding aligns with previous research by Wang & Zhang 2019, who noted that geometric symbols in ethnic art are often the most adaptable to contemporary design. However, the transformation of human figures and ritualistic symbols presents challenges. These symbols are not just aesthetic elements; they carry significant spiritual and ritualistic meanings. Therefore, they require a more contextualized approach to avoid misinterpretation. Experts recommended that such symbols be accompanied by cultural DOI 10.5281/zenodo.17586537 Page | 94