Blue Calico, Reimagined
A research-led exploration of how augmented reality can support the transmission of Wenzhou’s blue calico heritage.
- Context
- Wenzhou Annual Philosophy and Social Sciences Research Program
- My contribution
- Project lead · User research & solution design
A new way into an enduring craft.
Traditional blue calico faces challenges around public awareness, younger audiences’ participation and the ways its making process is communicated. I investigated these barriers through field studies, semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire.
I independently led the research and solution design, developing a digital heritage preservation model and an AR proof-of-concept demo. The project explores how people can engage with the craft’s processes and meaning through a digital layer.
Understanding the transmission gap
The project examined three connected challenges: making tacit craft knowledge visible, encouraging younger audiences to participate, and moving beyond a single mode of communication. Literature research, fieldwork, interviews and case analysis informed the design.
A three-layer preservation model
Technology and cultural interpretation support all three layers: digital capture and visualization preserve the craft, while local narratives keep the experience grounded in its cultural context.
- 01
Craft knowledge
Document processes, materials, tools and oral histories to preserve the craft’s context.
- 02
Interactive experience
Use AR to visualize making and translate key steps into participatory tasks.
- 03
Cultural communication
Connect the experience with local narratives, interpretation and wider circulation.
Exploring an AR encounter
The proof of concept explores how a digital layer can reveal details of carving and guide attention through the making process. It is an exploratory demo, rather than a released application.
