Sacred and Secular: A Dual Transformation in Thangka Cultural Dissemination across Tibet and Qinghai—Based on the Mechanism Transfer and Innovation of the "Hubei International Triennial of Lacquer Art"
Abstract
Thangka art, as a significant form of Tibetan material intangible cultural heritage, faces the challenge of balancing cultural preservation with contemporary transformation in the context of globalization. Drawing on the development experience of international art triennials and specialized heritage exhibitions, this paper proposes the establishment of a Tibet-Qinghai Thangka Triennial mechanism as a platform integrating heritage protection, artistic innovation, cultural dissemination, and sustainable development. The study develops a dual-track framework that combines the preservation of Thangka’s sacred cultural foundations with creative reinterpretation in contemporary contexts. It proposes a dual-city exhibition model between Lhasa and Xining, a multi-level collection system, digital preservation strategies, and cultural translation pathways to enhance public engagement and international communication. Furthermore, the paper explores sustainable feedback mechanisms through digital asset development, exhibition operations, and derivative industries while emphasizing respect for religious traditions and cultural authenticity. The proposed triennial mechanism aims to transform Thangka from a static heritage object into a dynamic cultural resource, fostering dialogue between tradition and modernity, local identity and global cultural exchange.