TU Dublin - Hainan Students Explore Cultural Heritage for Modern Event Design

This week the third year Events Management students from the TU Dublin - Hainan University joint degree visited the Hainan Provincial Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition Centre in Haikou which had its official opening at the start of this year.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, students explored exhibits showcasing traditional crafts, performing arts, and rituals unique to Hainan. Following the tour, they engaged in interactive activities designed to encourage critical thinking about cultural integrity and sensitivity when adapting ancient celebrations and traditions for modern events.

The textiles had a profound influence on the students. The Li ethnic group, one of China’s oldest minorities, has lived in Hainan for over 3,000 years. Their heritage is renowned for Li Brocade, a UNESCO-recognised craft involving intricate spinning, dyeing, weaving, and embroidery techniques using natural fibres and plant-based dyes. Each pattern tells a story, reflecting nature, daily life, and cultural identity, creating what many describe as a “universal language” that transcends spoken dialects. This tradition emphasises sustainability and cultural integrity, offering rich inspiration for innovative, modern event design.