The Symbolic Expression and Innovative Design of “Intangible Cultural Heritage” Elements: From Traditional Symbols to Modern Cultural Creations

Abstract

Purpose: This paper aims to explore the symbolic expression and innovative design of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) elements in modern cultural creative (cultural-creative) product design. Through the lens of semiotics, the study examines how traditional cultural symbols are effectively translated and reinterpreted in contemporary design contexts. It further investigates how to balance cultural preservation and design innovation during the symbol translation process. The research seeks to provide theoretical support for the application of ICH cultural symbols in modern design while offering new pathways for the design practice of ICH-based cultural products. Methods: The study adopts semiotic theory as its foundational framework, utilizing Peirce’s triadic semiotic model to systematically analyze the translation of ICH symbols. Through literature review, case studies, and semiotic analysis, the paper delves into the processes of symbolization, symbol translation pathways, and innovative symbol design in the context of traditional symbols. Results: The research reveals that the symbolic expression of ICH elements can be modernized not only through visual elements but also by reinterpreting the function and cultural meaning of the symbols via design innovation. During the symbol translation process, designers can deconstruct and reconstruct traditional symbols, preserving their core cultural values while integrating them with modern design demands. Conclusion: This analysis from a semiotic perspective highlights the significant potential of ICH symbols in modern cultural creative design. Symbol translation offers a crucial theoretical and practical framework for the preservation and innovation of ICH culture, retaining the historical value of cultural symbols while fulfilling contemporary market demands for design innovation. Future research may further explore the application of symbol translation in cross-cultural communication to promote the global development of ICH culture.