The Fifth Creative 2030 International Forum unveiled the 2025 Typical Cases on Protecting and Promoting the Diversity of Cultural Expressions in the Digital Environment. Shanxi's Past and Future – Xiaoxitian Cultural Relics and Hanging Sculpture Art Exhibition was selected as an international model case in the category of technology-empowered cultural heritage protection.

The Xiaoxitian Cultural Relics and Hanging Sculpture Art Exhibition is selected. [Photo/Shanxi news network]

The forum, co-organized by UNESCO, centered on AI and sustainable cultural development, attracting over 150 representatives from more than 10 countries and regions. The organizers selected 40 exemplary cases from 146 projects across 13 countries worldwide, with evaluation criteria encompassing five key indicators, including innovative elements.

A restoration of the main altar scene in the Xiaoxitian Mahavira Hall. [Photo/Shanxi news network]

The exhibition is part of Shanxi's touring exhibition initiative, using high-resolution digital assets of Xiaoxitian's hanging sculptures and showcasing cultural relics and polychrome sculpture resources. By integrating digital technology with physical displays, it introduces an innovative narrative approach, transforming immovable hanging sculpture art into a digital touring exhibition.

Visitors wear VR equipment to interact with the sculptures. [Photo/Shanxi news network]

The exhibition features an interactive VR experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a virtual tour of the grand hall, interact with sculptures through gesture controls, and converse with historical figures. This project offers a replicable model for digital preservation, revitalized presentation, and cross-regional dissemination of polychrome architectural heritage.