Revolutionizing Tradition: How Virtual Reality and AI Are Preserving Chinese Martial Arts and Dance
In a groundbreaking initiative, a research team from Hong Kong Shue Yan University has harnessed the power of virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) to breathe new life into the rich traditions of Chinese martial arts, dragon dances, and lion dances. This innovative project aims to make these cultural legacies accessible to a global audience, blending cutting-edge technology with centuries-old practices.The team has created a virtual building based on 3D scans of two local martial arts associations. This immersive space allows users to interact with various elements, such as lion dance heads and past photos, each accompanied by detailed notes that provide context and stories. “We want to create this virtual space for everyone who is interested in these legacies, no matter where they are in the world, to be able to access and learn more about the culture,” saeid Lee Ka-man, the head of the department of journalism and communication, who led the project.But the innovation doesn’t stop there. The team has also developed an AI-powered chatbot that answers questions about martial arts. The chatbot’s responses are based on 200,000 words of interviews conducted with seven senior masters of tai chi and wing chun. In the future,the chatbot will expand its scope to include dragon and lion dances,further enriching its repository of cultural knowledge.This project is a testament to the potential of technology in preserving and promoting intangible cultural heritage. By transforming a traditionally object-centered experiance into an interactive, peopel-centered one, the team has created a platform that not onyl educates but also fosters a deeper connection to these traditions.
| Key Features of the Project |
|———————————-|
| Virtual Building | Based on 3D scans of martial arts associations |
| Interactive Elements | Lion dance heads,historical photos,and contextual stories |
| AI Chatbot | Answers questions about martial arts,with plans to include dragon and lion dances |
| Interviews | 200,000 words from seven senior tai chi and wing chun masters |
This initiative is a shining example of how technology can bridge the gap between the past and the present,ensuring that these cultural treasures are not lost to time. Whether you’re a martial arts enthusiast or simply curious about these traditions, this virtual space offers a unique chance to explore and engage with the rich heritage of Chinese martial arts and dance.For those eager to dive deeper into the intersection of technology and cultural preservation, explore how VR is being used to revitalize traditional practices in other contexts, such as the Hakka Kungfu Exhibition at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum [[1]].
discover how AI and VR are transforming the way we learn and preserve cultural heritage, and join the movement to keep these traditions alive for generations to come.
