Project Overview: This project explores the phenomenon of cultural heritage erosion and object degradation through artistic creation, reflecting on how these threaten historical continuity. It also aims to reveal the dynamic processes of cultural heritage transformation amid societal shifts. Through travels in Hongcun (Anhui Province) and Jiangnan regions (Suzhou, Hangzhou, Jiaxing, etc.), I collected three culturally significant items: the Bodhi bead bracelet, goldstone bracelet, and intangible cultural heritage lion dance hat. These objects not only bear witness to historical change but also highlight the impact of modernisation through commercialisation, simplification, and mass production. The final outcomes include two fabric-based images, two paper-based images, and a travelogue documenting the journey. By employing destruction and erasure as artistic techniques, the project symbolises the metabolism of cultural heritage, underscoring that this transformation is not purely negative but rather a complex manifestation of cultural adaptation to time and societal changes.

Conclusion Through this project, I hope to raise awareness that the loss of cultural heritage is not merely an act of destruction but also a form of cultural adaptation to modern society. This "metabolism" warns us of the urgency of protecting traditional culture while encouraging us to find a balance between modernisation and dialogue with history.

Three Ritual Objects: Bodhi Bead Bracelet Origin: Rooted in Buddhist tradition, used for prayer and meditation. Modern Transformation: Now widely commercialised as a tourist souvenir, diluting its original spiritual significance. Goldstone Bracelet Origin: A man-made artefact symbolising wealth and good fortune. Modern Transformation: Mass-produced to meet market demands, losing the uniqueness of traditional craftsmanship. Intangible Cultural Heritage Lion Dance Hat Origin: A vital symbol of traditional festive culture, embodying community memories. Modern Transformation: Simplified in production due to aesthetic and cost considerations, becoming a generic product over time.