Transcending Time: The Resurrection of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Sugar Painting through Human-Robot Dynamics in an “Everywhen” Perspective

Abstract

Everywhen, as a conceptual framework, challenges the conventional linear perception of time and offers a perspective that is more akin to a continuous circle. Within this framework, it becomes evident that certain facets of Chinese cultural tradition face the risk of fading into obscurity in an age of intelligence and automation. This is particularly noticeable in the context of sugar painting, which has encountered numerous challenges in preservation with the passage of time. Conversely, innovative techniques, such as human-robot collaboration, breathe new life into these fading traditions. This research elucidates the technical process of preserving sugar painting through collaborative efforts between humans and robots, covering steps such as tool optimization, pattern design, printing test, and interaction design. The findings emphasize the innovative benefits of this approach, including the preservation of performativity and engagement, the evolution of content aesthetics, broader audience reach, and the transfer of skills to future generations. As such, this project demonstrates the potential of human-robot collaboration in the artistic revival of broader intangible cultural heritage, creating a dynamic circle and defying the limitations of linear time processes.

Keywords: Sugar Painting, Revitalization of Chinese Folk Art, Human-robot Collaboration, 3D printing, Transdisciplinary