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 application of Mo Shi Wen symbols in the design of cultural derivatives. To achieve this, the research includes interviews with experts, designers, consumers, and related researchers. 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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