The Symbol Transformation of Ancient Chinese Steles: Interactive Digital Exhibition Creation

Luchuan Chen; Bunchoo Bunlikhitsiri; Rasa Suntrayuth

doi:10.14456/jiskku.2026.3

Authors

Luchuan Chen Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Burapha University, Thailand
Bunchoo Bunlikhitsiri Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Burapha University, Thailand
Rasa Suntrayuth Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Burapha University, Thailand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14456/jiskku.2026.3

Keywords:

Ancient Chinese steles, Symbol transformation, Interactive digital media, Digital cultural heritage, 3D scanning, TouchDesigner

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to (1) examine the current status and characteristics of digital media exhibition systems in museums and identify innovative virtual media approaches for conceptual transformation; and (2) analyze the cultural value of ancient Chinese steles in Liaoning Province to develop strategies for transforming them into interactive digital symbols for exhibitions.

Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was employed, including literature review, field survey, expert interviews (n = 9), and creative practice. Data were collected from over 200 artifacts at the Liaoning Provincial Museum (Han to Qing dynasties) through field photography and design development using TouchDesigner. A questionnaire survey (n = 100) was conducted via the Wenjuanxing platform for quantitative evaluation.

Findings: (1) A knowledge framework for digital museum exhibitions and innovative virtual media was developed; (2) a design framework and prototype for interactive stele-based exhibitions (“Stories of Ancient Chinese Inscriptions”) were proposed; (3) results indicate that interactive multimedia enhances immersive experience and yields high user satisfaction, confirming design effectiveness.

Applications of this study: The study offers practical design guidelines for digital stele exhibitions and proposes an adaptable interactive media paradigm to support the preservation and global dissemination of cultural heritage.

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