As an integral part of human civilization, traditional culture faces the risk of being lost, marginalized, or even forgotten in modern society. The Dong ethnic group, one of China’s 56 officially recognized ethnic minorities, possesses a rich cultural heritage. A defining feature of Dong culture is its exceptional wooden architecture, characterized by intricate designs and sophisticated construction techniques that hold both practical and symbolic significance. Among these architectural elements, the “Mo Shi Wen” stands out as a particularly significant cultural symbol. Efforts to preserve and revitalize the “Mo Shi Wen” and other aspects of Dong heritage require innovative approaches that integrate modern design with traditional symbols. This study focuses on the development of visual derivatives that incorporate “Mo Shi Wen” into modern design. To achieve this, the research includes interviews with ordinary members of the Dong community, culturally knowledgeable practitioners, and local officials. Based on an authentic photograph of “Mo Shi Wen,” the study develops three symbolic representations—‘Middle,’ ‘Front,’ and ‘Back’—which were illustrated using the professional drawing software Procreate on an iPad. Through the case of developing visual derivatives of the “Mo Shi Wen” culture, this study verifies the feasibility and significance of integrating traditional cultural elements with modern design. Furthermore, the findings offer new perspectives on the protection of traditional culture and provide a practical reference for the application of modern design concepts in cultural communication. In the future, the effective integration of traditional cultural elements with contemporary design principles will further safeguard and promote the inheritance and development of traditional culture.
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