The First Workshop on Fashioning Intangible Cultural Heritage Launched at China National Silk Museum

The First Workshop on ICH as Fashion



On July 9, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved at the China National Silk Museum (CNSM) with the launch of the inaugural workshop titled "ICH Safeguarding, Ethics, and Commercialization". This workshop is a part of a larger initiative by UNESCO, aiming to build capacities around the theme “ICH as Fashion” over the next two years (2025-2026). The collaboration between UNESCO's Regional Office for East Asia and the CNSM sets the stage for an innovative exploration of how to integrate Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) into the realm of fashion design.

The workshop attracted 32 participants from various backgrounds, including ICH practitioners, fashion students, and emerging designers, fostering a unique environment for knowledge exchange. Among the distinguished speakers were notable figures such as Ananya Bhattacharya and Tara Gujadhur from the UNESCO Global Facilitators Network, along with experts like Prof. Wang Xiaocan and Dr. Vikrant Kishore who contributed valuable insights on the intersections of culture and fashion.

Exploring Core Concepts of ICH



the four-day immersive program focused on several core topics, aiming to provide attendees with a thorough understanding of ICH. The curriculum was designed to include:
  • - Key concepts relating to ICH, including traditional cultural expressions and design practices.
  • - Ethical principles in the context of commercialization and representation.
  • - Methodologies for storytelling, allowing participants to connect narratives with design.
  • - Frameworks promoting collaboration between ICH bearers and designers, emphasizing equity in commercial practices.

A significant part of the workshop involved drafting action plans for future projects over the two-year initiative. This hands-on approach enabled participants to apply what they learned in a practical setting, envisioning innovative pathways for ICH within the fashion industry.

CNSM's Commitment to ICH



CNSM is not just hosting workshops; it plays a pivotal role in safeguarding ICH. As the custodian of China’s notable sericulture and silk craftsmanship recognized by UNESCO, the museum has initiated several projects aimed at promoting cultural heritage. These initiatives include the Global Showcase exhibitions and academic forums designed to foster dialogue around ICH. The CNSM is also in the process of establishing the Textile ICH Committee to unify various textile preservation projects under one umbrella, promoting collaboration and innovative practices.

In conjunction with the workshop, CNSM is preparing for the 2025 SILK ROAD WEEK, which will highlight the significance of Silk Road heritage in contemporary design and culture. The event will serve as a platform for further discussions on how to uphold and innovate traditional practices in fashion, ensuring they remain relevant and preserved for future generations.

Looking Ahead



As the workshop concludes, participants leave with not just knowledge but also a sense of responsibility towards safeguarding their cultural heritage. The intersection of fashion and ICH presents an exciting opportunity for designers and cultural practitioners to work together, fostering a more inclusive and diversified approach to fashion that respects and incorporates age-old traditions. This workshop, and those to follow, will undoubtedly contribute significantly to the dialogue around the relationship between culture and the fashion industry, inspiring innovation and sustainability rooted in heritage.

Through initiatives like these, the China National Silk Museum envisions a future where fashion not only reflects contemporary trends but is also enriched with the depth of cultural history and integrity. As we move forward, the importance of maintaining this balance between modernity and heritage becomes ever more critical in our globalized world.

Topics Entertainment & Media)

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