On August 2, 2024, the 2024 Joint Workshop on Cultural Heritage Conservation—a summer program at Peking University—successfully concluded in Gansu. The workshop was jointly organized by the School of Archaeology and Museology at Peking University, the World Heritage Institute of Training and Research for the Asia and the Pacific Region under the auspices of UNESCO (Beijing), hereinafter referred to as WHITR-AP Beijing, and the Center for Public Archaeology and Art at Peking University. This initiative received strong support from the Gansu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism and the “Graduate Innovation Program” of the Peking University Graduate School. Over the course of ten days, participants gained an in-depth understanding of the cultural resources and cultural and creative industries in Ganzhou District of Zhangye City, Qin’an County and Maji District of Tianshui City, and Tongwei County and Lintao County of Dingxi City, Wudu District and Cheng County in Longnan City. Under the guidance of workshop instructors, they authored research reports totaling over 10,000 words, richly illustrated with images. These reports explored the contributions of cultural heritage to the development of local cultural tourism and cultural competitiveness within the framework of the cultural and creative industries, examining various dimensions such as cultural resources, driving factors, benefit assessments, and key challenges.
Photo | 2024 Joint Workshop on Cultural Heritage Conservation
·Closing Ceremony·
On August 2, the closing presentation of the 2024 Joint Workshop on Cultural Heritage Conservation was held in the conference room on the 25th floor of the Gansu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism. The event was chaired by Park Lina, Project Officer at WHITR-AP Beijing.
Photo | Scene from the closing ceremony
Experts attending the presentation included: Zhang Shuyong, Director of the Finance Department at the Gansu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism and World Bank Project Lead; Du Xiaofan, Professor at the Department of Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies at Fudan University and Chair of the UNESCO Chair in Living Heritage and Community Development; Gao Yafang, Dean of the School of Tourism at Lanzhou University of Arts and Sciences; Kong Da, Associate Professor at the Department of Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies at Fudan University; and Liu Shaoyuan, Postdoctoral Researcher at the Department of Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies at Fudan University. Li Hangying, Cultural Projects Assistant at the UNESCO East Asia Multisectoral Regional Office; and Zhang Jianwei, Tenured Associate Professor at the School of Archaeology and Museology, Peking University, and Executive Deputy Director of WHITR-AP Beijing, participated online. Li Kuanghan, Assistant to the Director of WHITR-AP Beijing; Sun Jing, Associate Professor at the Quanzhou Cultural Heritage Research Institute of Quanzhou Normal University; Wang Siyu, Assistant Professor at the School of Archaeology and Museology, Peking University, and Director of the Peking University Center for Public Archaeology and Art; and Wang Shaohan, Lecturer at the School of Cultural Heritage and Information Management, Shanghai University; Park Lina, Project Officer at WHITR-AP Beijing, attended the presentation as a supervising instructor.
Prior to the formal presentations, Li Kuanghan first provided a review and summary of the joint cultural heritage conservation workshop. Based on the fundamental principle of multidisciplinary collaboration, the workshop saw the in-person participation of 25 faculty members and students from 13 universities worldwide, yielding a wealth of specialized research outcomes.
Photo | Li Kuanghan delivering the summary
·Research Presentation·
1
Zhangye Group
Presenters: Jiang Chunlin, Zhu Yuxin, Wang Jiaojiao, Liu Fangyu
Faculty Leaders: Li Kuanghan, Sun Jing
Academic Assistant: Ma Lerong
Group Members: Jiang Chunlin, Zhu Yuxin, Wang Jiaojiao, Liu Fangyu, Yu Dian’er, Yuan Ziqing
Photo | Zhangye Group Presentation
During the research period, the Zhangye Group surveyed a total of 17 cultural resources in Ganzhou District, Zhangye City, covering tangible and intangible cultural heritage, public cultural institutions, and cultural enterprises, and specifically highlighted the catalytic role of the Seven-Color Danxia Scenic Area. The report proposed development recommendations across four key dimensions: resources, technology, talent, and benefits: Revitalize and utilize advantageous resources, advance the application of digital technologies, improve talent recruitment policies, and strengthen spatial planning and benefit assessments. This research provides a comprehensive blueprint for the future development of Zhangye’s cultural and creative industries, supporting policy formulation and implementation while promoting the simultaneous enhancement of the city’s economic and social benefits.
2
Dingxi Group
Presenters: Teng Yan, Zhang Tianxi
Faculty Leader: Wang Siyu
Academic Assistant: Lu He
Group Members: Li Xiangcheng, Teng Yan, Zhang Tianxi
Photo | Dingxi Group Presentation
The Dingxi Group’s final presentation focused on the current status, driving factors, and benefit assessments of diverse resources, including tangible cultural heritage such as the Majiayao Site, intangible cultural heritage such as Lintao paper-cutting, cultural enterprises like the Majiayao Polychrome Pottery Cultural Town, and public cultural institutions. Through field research and case studies, the report delved into key issues regarding the preservation and development of cultural resources, proposing concrete solutions and future plans aimed at promoting the revitalization and sustainable development of local cultural resources.
3
Longnan Group
Presenters: Bai Xinyu, Yang Yi
Supervising Instructor: Park Lina
Group Members: Bai Xinyu, Li Jina, Yang Yi
Photo | Longnan Group Presentation
The Longnan Group surveyed a total of 17 cultural heritage sites in Wudu District and Cheng County. As the cultural industry in Longnan City is still in its early stages of development, many projects are still in the construction phase. Compounded by the impact of recent flooding, the group focused its field research on government-supported large-scale cultural scenic area development, the revitalization of ancient villages, and the construction of the “Four Museums and One Center.” They also examined the development of intangible cultural heritage such as Wudu wood carving, Wudu Gaoshan Opera, and Chengzhou dough figurines. The team believes that the development of industries centered on wellness and cultural tourism has facilitated the relocation of businesses and enhanced the city’s comprehensive service capabilities, and they expressed optimism regarding the future development of Longnan’s cultural and creative industries.
4
Tianshui Group
Presenter: Zhao Yinuo
Faculty Leader: Wang Shaohan
Academic Assistant: Kang Anning
Group Members: He Yuwei, Wu Zhiyi, Zhao Yinuo, Chen Haoyang
Photo | Tianshui Group Presentation
The Tianshui Group focused on the Tianshui City Museum (including the Fuxi Temple), the Maijishan Grottoes, and the Dadiwan Site, as well as intangible cultural heritage such as Guanxia bamboo weaving and carved lacquer craftsmanship. The group noted that in recent years, Maiji District has integrated inclusivity into daily operations by strengthening public transportation, infrastructure, creative spaces, and talent training. These efforts have enhanced innovation capabilities and international cooperation, driving the sustainable development of cultural undertakings and industries, and further promoting social innovation and economic growth in the Tianshui region.
·Group Review·
Following the presentations, the attending experts and scholars reviewed the content presented by each group.
Zhang Shuyong, Director of the Finance Division at the Gansu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism and Project Lead for the World Bank initiative, stated that the students from each group demonstrated outstanding performance during the joint cultural heritage protection workshop. They conducted in-depth research on cultural resources, accurately analyzed issues, provided valuable recommendations for local development, and contributed to both cultural heritage preservation and regional growth. However, he noted that the current policy recommendations are somewhat theoretical and need to be made more actionable to drive practical development. He also advised the Longnan group to pay closer attention to the calligraphy and painting industry in Cheng County, while the Tianshui group should place greater emphasis on cultural resources such as Tianshui carved lacquer.
Photo | Zhang Shuyong's Comments
Professor Du Xiaofan, a professor in the Department of Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies at Fudan University and holder of the UNESCO Chair in Living Heritage and Community Development, first commended the students’ work. However, she also pointed out that while carrying out their projects, each group should start from the nature of the resources themselves. While adhering to the basic principles of the CCC framework and the World Bank’s economic efficiency orientation, each group should conduct an in-depth analysis of the specific conditions, challenges, and opportunities in their local areas or specific fields, By comprehensively applying professional knowledge, conducting thorough research, and widely soliciting feedback from stakeholders, they should develop innovative solutions that not only comply with international standards but also closely align with practical needs.
Photo | Comments by Du Xiaofan
Associate Professor Kong Da from the Department of Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies at Fudan University noted that adapting the Western-originated CCC framework to the Chinese context is a complex and challenging process. It requires a deep understanding of China’s national conditions while maintaining alignment with international standards. This process demands the joint efforts and collaboration of the government, domestic and international social forces, as well as individual institutions. Professor Kong particularly emphasized the subjective efforts of individual institutions, using Maijishan as an example to highlight the significance of actively reaching out to the outside world.
Photo | Professor Kong Da’s Comments
Dr. Liu Shaoyuan, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Cultural Heritage and Museology at Fudan University, noted that the current analysis of cultural resources by various groups remains insufficiently comprehensive. He proposed three key points: first, returning to the historical context in which cultural resources emerged; second, considering pathways for heritage transformation based on the distinct characteristics of different heritage sites; and third, strengthening the consideration of digitization and placing greater emphasis on the application of advanced technologies. Regarding the Maijishan Grottoes, Dr. Liu highlighted two key points: first, the presentation and transmission of the Maijishan Grottoes; second, the issue of community benefits for the heritage site and its local community as embodied by Maijishan.
Image | Comments by Liu Shaoyuan
Dr. Gao Yafang, Dean of the School of Tourism at Lanzhou University of Arts and Sciences, offered overall affirmation of the work conducted by each group during the summer course and specifically pointed out directions for further reflection on the handling of six key relationships. She emphasized the relationship between methodology and practice, particularly the localized understanding and application of the concept of “city” within the framework. She also addressed the relationship between “breaking” and “establishing”—that is, during the research process, students should not only identify problems but also propose solutions. Furthermore, she expressed her hope that the research findings from Gansu could be promoted and adopted in other underdeveloped regions across the country.
Photo | Gao Yafang’s Comments
Professor Zhang Jianwei, Tenured Associate Professor at the School of Archaeology and Museology, Peking University, and Executive Deputy Director of WHITR-AP Beijing, along with Li Hangying, Cultural Program Assistant at the UNESCO East Asia Multisectoral Regional Office, participated in the closing ceremony online.
Professor Zhang Jianwei first acknowledged the students’ hard work and extended his warm congratulations to everyone. He noted that each group had achieved fruitful research results and had raised thoughtful questions regarding the applicability of the CCC framework during the research process, encouraging students to adjust their research frameworks based on actual circumstances. He also emphasized the importance of visual language in presenting ideas, noting that images can intuitively demonstrate complex data and logical relationships. Finally, Professor Zhang Jianwei cited the views of Duan Yifu, pointing out that non-utilitarian elements such as originality and inclusivity hold significant importance in sustainable development.
Li Hangying highly commended the professional competence and tireless efforts demonstrated by each group throughout the project. Through extensive data collection, in-depth interviews, and field visits, each group successfully developed a comprehensive and profound understanding of their research subjects and the CCC framework. They actively explored implementation pathways and strategies suited to local characteristics, integrating the principles and requirements of the CCC framework into all aspects of local development. This not only facilitated the successful implementation of the CCC framework in Gansu but also provided valuable experience and models for other regions to draw upon.
·Summary and Concluding Remarks·
Zhang Shuyong, Director of the Finance Division at the Gansu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism and Project Manager for the World Bank initiative, delivered the concluding remarks. Zhang Shuyong first expressed gratitude to UNESCO for its long-standing support of Gansu’s cultural and tourism initiatives. He expressed the hope that the workshop’s final report would be more targeted and actionable, offering recommendations for the development of Gansu’s cultural and tourism sector from a broader perspective. He also looked forward to leveraging UNESCO’s platform to promote international exchange and cooperation in the preservation of Gansu’s cultural heritage. Finally, Zhang Shuyong once again thanked all the faculty and students for their hard work.
Photo | Zhang Shuyong’s Closing Remarks
·Successful Conclusion·
This workshop has come to a successful conclusion on the vast and magnificent land of Gansu. Faculty and students from all corners of the country gathered in Gansu, undeterred by the scorching sun and sandstorms, and pressing forward with determination even amidst occasional showers. Not only did they successfully conduct interdisciplinary research, but they also forged deep friendships throughout this journey. We would like to extend our most sincere gratitude to all the dedicated faculty leaders, distinguished guest speakers, and diligent teaching assistants, as well as to the leaders, staff, and interviewees from relevant departments across Gansu who provided unwavering support for the workshop!
Photo | Workshop participants, organizing team, and judging panel members
Copy: Ma Lerong, Lu He
Editors: Ma Lerong, Park Lina
Reviewers: Li Kuanghan, Wang Siyu
Final Reviewers: Shen Ruiwen, Zhang Jianwei
