Iconic Research Articles

Translations in a time of crisis: the role of translators of Nietzsche, Sorel, and Bergson in addressing Edwardian political fragmentation, 1907–1915

ABSTRACT This article examines the role of British translators of European philosophers from 1907 to 1915 in addressing Edwardian political crises. In an age of fragmentation between the main parties as well as crises within political groups, cultural and political magazines were a ‘counter public sphere’ in which intellectuals could discuss the conflicts of public life. This article will show how translators of Friedrich Nietzsche, Georges Sorel, and Henri Bergson opened up debate between intellectuals across the political spectrum in the avant-garde magazine The New Age through the worship of intellectual heroes not bound to any tradition. The translators Oscar Levy, Millicent Murby, and T. E. Hulme all sought to create cultural icons to overcome splits in their different political projects. Whilst Edwardian intellectuals played with tropes of British insularity and philistinism, scholarship has neglected how the geographical concept of insularity was projected onto a reality that was ideological disintegration.

<b>Narrative Features of Planting Design</b><b></b>

The narrative character of planting design is the fun of landscapes, telling stories and morals in a unique way in planning. When the landscape stimulates our multiple senses, it even has a great impact on our behavior, our views, and our psychological perception of the world. The way of landscaping tells stories or conveys ideas from four planting design angles, including the symbolic meanings of plants, dynamic storytelling, philosophical design and contrast with Eden. It reflects the importance of a successful landscape and public values, and enhance the interaction with public emotion. This paper provides a detailed exposition of methods and specific scenarios for creating narrative landscapes through the use of plants, drawing on examples from classical gardens in various countries, including Europe, England, and China. This study aims to organize and summarize the cultural symbols present in planting design, clarify the expressive techniques of narrative landscapes through plant design, and provide theoretical insights for interpreting and understanding classical gardens, as well as practical support for future landscape design endeavors.

Songs of Confrontation and Survival

This article analyses the Sapha Hors, a sect that emerged in the Santal Parganas in the wake of the Santal defeat in the hul of 1855. Based on oral history and archival sources, it provides an insight into how the sect committed itself, at its inception, to an agenda of self-purification, developing in the process a unique identity through an engagement with a diverse cultural environment in the Santal Parganas—a melting pot of evangelical missionary ideology and local Hindu traditions, with an interesting range of cultural symbols, moral precepts, and modes of worship from which the Sapha Hors could borrow, exercising their own discretionary agency. The songs of the Sapha Hors, wrapped in an enigmatic language of pacifism, best articulate the self-representation of the sect during its struggle to adjust to colonial and post-colonial challenges over the course of a long historical journey, which began in the 1870s. The article attempts to revive indigenous voices and their self-reflexive insights into life and struggle, which are fast disappearing from streamlined “mainstream” versions of indigeneity.

From soil to soul: teaching about Islam through gardens

ABSTRACT Religious diversity in the UK is evident in its compulsory Religious Education (RE) curriculum, which includes the study of Islam and Muslims. An analysis of UK RE textbooks highlights a predominant theological approach to studying Islam focusing on faith pillars, worship spaces, rituals and orthopraxy. However, the civilisational, artistic and humanistic entry points to the study about Islam are rarely, if ever, brought to the forefront in such curriculum materials. By situating the study about Islam as part of world civilisations one may observe the complexities and diversities within the Muslim traditions. This paper argues that teaching about Islam, through the case study of gardens, can provide humanistic and artistic entry points that can orient students to cultural, geographic, and ethnic diversities that exist within the traditions. Gardens in Muslim societies, past and present, vary in cultural forms, symbolism, and social functions. Focusing on their built environment and believers’ associated meanings, the paper explores thematic areas for secondary RE classrooms. The recent trends in Islamic Studies and secondary education help the study in examining existing representations of Islam in the RE Agreed Syllabi within the UK mainstream school context, proposing a new future direction.

Identifying Preferred Features of Influenza Vaccination Programs Among Chinese Clinicians Practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine: Discrete Choice Experiment.

Achieving high vaccine coverage among clinicians is crucial to curb the spread of influenza. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), rooted in cultural symbols and concepts without direct parallels in modern Western medicine, may influence perspectives on vaccination. Therefore, understanding the preferences of TCM clinicians towards influenza vaccines is of great importance. To understand preferences for features of influenza vaccination programs and identify the optimal influenza vaccination program among clinicians practicing TCM and Western medicine. We conducted a discrete choice experiment with a national sample of 3085 Chinese clinicians from various hospital levels (n=1013 practicing TCM) from January to May 2022. Simulations from choice models using the experimental data generated the coefficients of preference and predicted the uptake rate of different influenza vaccination programs. Clinicians were grouped by vaccine preference classification through a latent class analysis. All included attributes significantly influenced clinicians' preferences for choosing an influenza vaccination program. An approximate hypothetical 60% increase of vaccine uptake could be obtained when the attitude of the workplace changed from "no notice" to "encouraging of vaccination"; there was an approximate hypothetical 35% increase of vaccine uptake when vaccination campaign strategies changed from "individual appointment" to "vaccination in a workplace setting." In the entire sample, about 30% (946/3085) of clinicians preferred free vaccinations, while 26.5% (819/3085) comprehensively considered all attributes, except vaccination campaign strategies, when making a decision about choosing an influenza vaccination program. Clinicians who practiced TCM, worked in tertiary hospital, or had at least a postgraduate degree exhibited a lower preference for free vaccinations. Clinicians who practiced Western medicine, worked in primary hospital, or had at most a bachelor's degree had a higher preference for vaccinations in workplace settings. Offering a range of influenza vaccination programs targeting the preferred attributes of different clinician groups could potentially encourage more clinicians, including those practicing TCM, to participate in influenza vaccination programs.

Farnese palace in Caprarola, Italy: Towards a people-centred brand image in a cultural tourism market

The valorization of cultural identity-centered brand icons has become a requested action nowadays, promoting the marketing statement of local heritage sites that aren’t designated as UNESCO World Heritage. Thus, these sites might compete to enhance and safeguard cultural heritage and authentic cultural knowledge. Moreover, lessening the high negative impact of the customization approach on the conservation statement of the cultural asset, the research adopts a people-centered approach developing the interlinkages between cultural tourism marketing and conservative management to enhance the rapport between the community and the palace in a community-based cultural tourism manner. Therefore, this empirical study reviews the cultural significance of the Farnese Palace in Caprarola and its reflection on its marketing statement, developing its brand image. It applies an integrated method that combines quantitative and qualitative analysis. It mainly assesses 165 online questionnaires with the public audience. The findings of this study draw a proposal for generating a people-centered heritage branding image (logo and slogan) of the Farnese Palace in Caprarola that seeks to generate a lifelong learning memory for the community and a long-term brand image for the visitors’ mentality.

Bridging Gaps in Cultural Identity Graphics for Enhanced Space Perception in Qinzhou City: A Conceptual Framework

ABSTRACT This study employs cultural graphics to close the gaps in cultural and social identity in Qinzhou City, China, to enhance the urban spatial perception. To analyze existing studies and identify unexplored areas, the Critical Literature Review was performed on cultural graphics that fostered emotional and symbolic connections. The study develops 'cultural graphic resonance', a concept based on the Semiotic, Social Identity, and Cultural Identity theories of the emotional and symbolic effects of cultural symbols on urban identity and cohesion. The findings advance a mix of traditional elements, such as Nixing pottery and Lingnan motifs, with modern images to create a unified urban identity. It offers actionable strategies to bridge cultural identity divides and to improve the urban spatial perception. Finally, policy and design recommendations for culturally diverse cities like Qinzhou are given as a basis for future empirical research on the role of cultural graphics in urban planning and community cohesion.

Pipa Performance Analysis and Timbre Simulation Based on Artificial Intelligence

As a traditional Chinese musical instrument, pipa is famous for its unique timbre and complex and varied playing techniques. It is an important symbol of Chinese music culture. However, its complexity also makes its digital protection and research face many challenges. There are many kinds of playing techniques for pipa, such as finger rolling, plucking, bending, sweeping and overtones, each technique gives it a unique timbre change. In addition, the timbre of the pipa presents a variety of expressions due to the playing force, speed and the performer's skills, which puts higher demands on traditional music research and simulation technology.With the rapid development of artificial intelligence technology, especially breakthroughs in audio signal processing and deep learning, new solutions have been provided for the research of pipa art. By combining machine learning models and generative adversarial networks (GAN), significant progress can be made in technique analysis and timbre simulation. This study aims to use artificial intelligence technology to analyze the performance characteristics of the pipa and generate realistic timbre simulations, providing technical support for the digital protection and dissemination of traditional music.

Tea-Tasting Culture Symbols in Contemporary China: Times and Spirit

Tea-Tasting Culture Symbols in Contemporary China: Times and Spirit

From Cultural Symbol to Campus “Idol” and Back

From Cultural Symbol to Campus “Idol” and Back

Saudi History, Heritage, and Traditions: Integration in Modern Graphic Design Output

Digital arts offer us simple-to-understand software that has allowed us to experiment, as well as explore further, the depths of the laws of art. This has given graphic designers the power to express our outlooks on life in a much more accessible and understandable way. The following study focuses on how we can integrate traditional heritage patterns found in artworks, houses, and more into a template that will allow graphic design artists to base their outputs on a similar basis in symbols and patterns. As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia possesses a rich cultural heritage characterized by elements that reflect its historical, social, and religious traditions, it’s important that we continue to express our heritage in the future. Creating this template can help modern graphic design students better understand and integrate these traditional heritage symbols and patterns into their practice, along with ensuring that our old ways remain archived with us as we reach for the future. This study evaluates the availability of resources and identifies gaps in educational or cultural support that can enhance students’ design outputs. This quantitative research was carried out through an online survey of 42 graphic design students at the University of Taif to assess their familiarity with Saudi cultural symbols. This was followed by an evaluation of student design projects by a panel of 15 Saudi graphic expert judges. Based on the findings, graphic design students need to gain access to these cultural riches to understand further the deeper meaning behind the symbols of the kingdom’s heritage. In addition, students need to gain insight into the historical, social, and religious significance of the symbols they are working with.

The Application of Traditional Chinese Auspicious Animal Patterns in Commercial Poster Illustration

Traditional Chinese auspicious animal patterns are significant symbols of Chinese culture, carrying profound historical and cultural connotations. In the context of globalization and digitalization, how to innovatively apply traditional patterns to modern commercial poster illustrations has become an important topic in the cultural and creative industries. This study focuses on traditional Chinese auspicious animal patterns, exploring their application strategies and practical approaches in commercial poster illustrations. Through literature review, case analysis, and comparative analysis, this paper examines the cultural and artistic characteristics of traditional patterns, combined with the visual language and communication functions of commercial poster illustrations. It proposes application strategies such as aligning pattern selection with themes, integrating traditional designs with modern aesthetics, unifying color schemes with brand identity, and enhancing composition for visual impact. By analyzing typical domestic and international cases, the study summarizes successful experiences and shortcomings, providing theoretical support and practical guidance for the modern application of traditional patterns. The research demonstrates that incorporating traditional Chinese auspicious animal patterns into commercial poster illustrations not only inherits and promotes traditional culture but also enhances the cultural value and market competitiveness of designs, injecting new vitality into the sustainable development of the cultural and creative industries.

Walasuji Sulapa Eppa’na: Integrating Philosophical Values into Sustainable Development in the Land of To Kaili

Walasuji - Sulapa Eppa'na is a cultural symbol of the Bugis-Makassar ethnic group in South Sulawesi, rich in philosophical values that embody spirituality, identity, mutual cooperation, and human responsibility in preserving nature. Its geometric pattern, composed of stacked quadrilaterals resembling rhombuses, serves not only as an aesthetic ornament but also symbolises the human journey towards perfection and the relationship with God. This concept represents the four main elements of life: God, humanity, the sky, the earth, and everything within it. However, in the Palu Valley, with the history of Bugis-Makassar ethnic migration, these philosophical values have begun to degrade due to globalisation, acculturation of forms, materials, functions, preferences, and the younger generation’s diminishing understanding of their ancestral traditions. As a result, Walasuji - Sulapa Eppa'na has become increasingly rare in the wedding ceremonies of the Bugis-Makassar-Kaili ethnic community, known as “To Kaili.” This research employs a qualitative method by exploring a single phenomenon, which is then analysed descriptively to understand the degradation of the cultural symbol Walasuji - Sulapa Eppa'na. The research objects are users of Walasuji structures, with Sulapa Eppa'na samples selected using purposive and incidental sampling techniques. The study aims to analyse the impact of changes on the preservation of Walasuji - Sulapa Eppa'na and explore the potential revitalisation of its values in urban development. The findings reveal that despite the degradation, the Bugis-Makassar-Kaili ethnic community continues to strive to preserve their cultural identity, including the responsibility of safeguarding nature. This study recommends integrating the values of Walasuji - Sulapa Eppa'na into urban development to achieve sustainable development.

Water as a Sustainable Infrastructure and Cultural Symbol of City: Bächle in Freiburg im Breisgau

Water as a Sustainable Infrastructure and Cultural Symbol of City: Bächle in Freiburg im Breisgau

Analysis of Public Art Design in a SquareTaking Square of Chongqing Flower Garden as an Example

Square of Chongqing Flower Garden, located in the northern part of Chongqing, serves as a significant urban space, shaping local identity and guiding visitors' routes within the garden. This paper analyzes the graphic expression of cultural symbolism, with a particular focus on tea culturea key element of Chongqing's heritage, represented here through camellia sculptures. The purpose of the design is to make Chongqing Flower Garden a place that showcases the beautiful scenery of the mountains throughout the four seasons and is popular among citizens, tourists, and flower enthusiasts. Using theoretical analysis and case analysis, this study concludes that graphic expression is an important way to establish design language, and iconic design language brings a highly recognizable place identity to the square in front of the flower garden.

Mathematical Symbolization in Relation to Arts and Culture

This paper stems from an analysis of a larger study that explored proficiency in mathematical symbolization and presents students’ representational fluency in using mathematical symbols concerning arts and culture. The research had the potential of revealing the conception of symbols by students, the thick line interconnection between mathematics and arts and underscoring mathematics symbols in the perspective of arts. The study objectives comprised finding out whether culture has mathematical concepts and how students conceive mathematical symbols concerning culture and traditions. The analysis made use of constructivist learning and ecological system theory as conceptual frameworks in lensing the study. The qualitative case study research design examined multiple representations of symbols among students in secondary schools and reported in light of symbols’ interconnections to the perspective of the arts. The findings of the study show that students are aware of mathematics concepts and their origin in the communities’ culture and prior knowledge of symbols contributes to challenges and tenacity in multiple representations of symbols in aspects of supportive and problematic conception. Discussion of these findings concerning performance in mathematics in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) may be owed to long-term negative effects on students’ understanding of mathematical symbolizations which in turn could impact achievement in mathematics. The study may be useful in recommending that emphasis could be put on better ways of integrating diverse cultures in the mathematics curriculum through curriculum documentation such as textbooks to enhance mathematical symbols’ conceptual understanding among students and reduce symbol cognitive load through proper pedagogical design

A Study on Floral Patterns and their Cultural Symbolism in Qing Dynasty Enamel Porcelain

A Study on Floral Patterns and their Cultural Symbolism in Qing Dynasty Enamel Porcelain

Music, Language and Public Sphere: Tracing the Power of Culture in Collective Identity

The ‘classicization’ of Indian music during the late 19th and early 20th centuries was closely associated with colonial modernity and nationalism. This process elevated music to a central symbol of Indian culture within the nationalist framework. This paper examines the intersection of language, music, and the public sphere, focusing on how music in Maharashtra, particularly Pune, aligned with Marathi identity as part of a larger cultural transformation. The establishment of institution like Gandharva Mahavidyalaya and figures like Pt. Vinayakbua Patwardhan played significant role in this alignment, portraying music as an emblem of regional and national heritage. The paper is based on a study which has used historical method to analyse the link between music, language and collective identity. By tracing the history of consolidation of regional Marathi identity, the paper draws attention to how the project of Maharashtra Sangeet worked in tune with the creation and consolidation of a Marathi public sphere.

Application of traditional Chinese auspicious patterns in computer graphic design teaching

Background: Computer graphicdesigners utilize technology to adapt and blend text, images, color, font, and music to produce emotions and suggest messages to viewers. It makes concepts easier to visualize, supports creative design processes, improves user interfaces, and helps to investigate simulations.Objective: This study aims to develop an innovative computer graphic design teaching model using traditional Chinese auspicious patterns. Traditional Chinese auspicious patterns are imbued with cultural consequence and symbolism that offer students deeper consideration of visual aesthetics and cultural heritage in computer graphic design. Methods: In this study, a novel horse herd optimized poly-kernel support vector machine (HHO-PSVM) is proposed to forecast student performance in computer graphic design teaching. Student data is collected and analyzed by monitoring and assessing their commitment with computer graphic design teaching activities. The data was preprocessed by normalization. Then features are extracted from independent component analysis (ICA) from preprocessed data. Results: The findings of this study demonstrate that Chinese auspicious patterns in computer graphic design teaching improve students' understanding of cultural aesthetics and enhance creativity and engagement. A comparison of metrics' numerical results pre and post pattern was implemented. The improvement in recall from 68% to 90%, accuracy from 65% to 89%, precision from 63% to 87%, and F1-score from 64% to 88% was positive. Conclusion: This study contributes to the broader interaction of traditional art forms with digital activities by contributing education in digital design

Marketed Popular Romantic Fiction: A Brief Exploration of Women’s Values--Taking “Xing Han Can Lan, Xing Shen Zhi Zai” as an Example

Popular literature is defined as literature that is read by a large number of people in a certain period of time to meet specific requirements of the people, mostly for the goal of mind and soul entertainment, with the coexistence of artistic and economic qualities. A trendy topic in popular fiction is romance novels. There are particular websites for romance novels in China, such as the Jinjiang Literature Website. Many novels published in paper form are first serialized on this website. If the response is good, publishers will contact the authors to publish them. Popular romance novels also conform to the characteristics of many popular cultures; for example, popular literature usually has some fixed sets of pictures or often cultural symbols. Therefore, it is easy for readers to read and feel happy. In this essay, I would like to discuss the popular romance novels in the market. This article will use literature analysis and case study methods to study it. In the end, the result is that although popular romance novels have been marketed, they can also be used to awaken women’s consciousness in the most potent way of communication, thereby enlightening them.