**Interviewer: Shan Shan Zhou, Commentator for this Journal**
**Interviewee: Wenbo Zhang, Commentator for Gansu Daily**
**Shan Shan Zhou:** During his recent visit to Gansu, General Secretary Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of cultural heritage work, urging us to embrace the “Mogao Spirit” in our commitment to safeguarding cultural treasures. He stated, “I hope cultural heritage workers continue the ‘Mogao Spirit,’ dedicating themselves to protecting our national treasures and making greater contributions to the inheritance and innovation of outstanding traditional Chinese culture.” This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Dunhuang Research Institute. As we reflect on our past while looking ahead, how can we better understand and promote the “Mogao Spirit”?
**Wenbo Zhang:** The “Mogao Spirit” is quite tangible; it represents a culmination of dedication over time and space. Consider Chang Shuhong, who left a comfortable life to work in the rugged environment of the Mogao Caves, or Duan Wenjie, who, upon entering the caves, likened the experience to a bull rampaging through a garden, leading to his reproduction of over 300 murals. Then there’s Fan Jinshi, who devoted her life to creating digital archives for all 735 caves, ensuring “permanent preservation and sustainable use.” The legacy of cultural heritage workers is rich and embodies the “Mogao Spirit,” characterized by perseverance, selflessness, accountability, and a relentless drive to advance—these individuals have allowed the essence of Dunhuang culture to flourish.
But this spirit isn’t limited to Dunhuang itself; it resonates deeply with countless individuals across China, inspiring them to engage as both inheritors and innovators of our culture in this new era. Their efforts are pivotal to preserving and revitalizing traditional Chinese culture, amplifying its global presence.
**Shan Shan Zhou:** The responsibility we shoulder reveals our true character as we weave new narratives beneath the Singing Sands. Each generation builds upon the last, passing along a legacy of spirit. Today, the Dunhuang Research Institute is home to a dynamic professional team of various ages who collaborate harmoniously. For the “Mogao Spirit” to endure, we must cultivate talent. It’s crucial to create opportunities for individuals to thrive if we wish to develop Dunhuang further.
**Wenbo Zhang:** Cultural inheritance is fundamentally tied to talent. We need to inspire individuals with a shared vision, drive progress through tangible work, and nurture talent through effective systems. The Dunhuang Research Institute is establishing a comprehensive management system that integrates production, study, research, and application, while also strengthening talent recruitment, training, and utilization strategies. As a result, we’ve seen a significant increase in skilled experts focused on cultural heritage. This year, Gansu introduced 15 robust measures aimed at fortifying the talent foundation at the Dunhuang Research Institute. We must attract, retain, and empower talent for our culture to thrive and flourish.
Currently, over 60% of the digital protection team at the Dunhuang Research Institute comprises members under 35 years old. This new generation of guardians is actively practicing the “Mogao Spirit” through their dedication to preservation and research, ensuring that this invaluable cultural legacy is meticulously safeguarded for future generations.
**Shan Shan Zhou:** While the artifacts of Dunhuang are ancient, concepts and techniques for their preservation are constantly evolving. These strategies are currently in use for over 500 national key cultural relic protection projects across more than 20 provinces and have even transcended borders, providing a “Chinese Solution” for heritage preservation in nations along the Belt and Road Initiative. What insights can we glean from Dunhuang’s preservation strategies?
**Wenbo Zhang:** The Dunhuang Research Institute is nearing the completion of a comprehensive protection management system that effectively balances both protection and oversight. This includes implementing both rescue and preventive measures, enhanced by digital technology supported by regulatory frameworks and protection plans. The incorporation of digital technology has provided us with “technological wings” for cultural relic preservation. From preventing wind and sand damage to analyzing deterioration causes, and shifting from reactive responses to proactive strategies, the Institute is committed to leveraging technology for preservation.
We are in the process of creating high-definition digital archives for every cave, mural, and statue, ensuring that the Mogao Caves will “forever maintain their beauty.” The world’s first ultra-spatial participatory museum, the “Digital Cave of Scriptures,” recreates mural details with millimeter precision, helping reunite cultural relics that are scattered worldwide. Additionally, we have set up various simulation labs to replicate different climatic conditions, enhancing our preventive protection strategies. By merging state-of-the-art technology with ancient culture, Dunhuang is pioneering a unique path in cave preservation—one that began at Mogao but benefits a global audience.
**Shan Shan Zhou:** General Secretary Xi Jinping has highlighted that “Protecting the Mogao Caves and passing down Dunhuang culture is a responsibility that the Chinese nation must uphold for the advancement of world civilization.” With nearly two millennia of continuity, Dunhuang culture is a remarkable gem in the tapestry of global civilization. What makes Dunhuang special? It represents the confluence of diverse Silk Road cultures, the unwavering commitment of talented individuals, dynamic cultural exchanges, and the integration of technology with the humanities. Dunhuang’s allure lies in its ability to honor its historical roots while embracing external influences and anticipating the future. Moving forward in this new historical era, how can we further embrace and propagate the “Mogao Spirit”? This calls for upholding the spirit of openness and inclusivity inherent in Chinese civilization, allowing our rich traditional culture—rooted in a glorious past—to flourish in an era marked by exchange and mutual appreciation.
**Wenbo Zhang:** The effective transmission and promotion of outstanding traditional Chinese culture depend on creative transformation and innovative development. Today’s Dunhuang reflects not only timeless caves but also lively elements that permeate everyday life: the establishment of a digital cultural heritage sharing platform, the popularity of Dunhuang-themed cultural and creative products in global markets, and events such as the Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo and the Dunhuang Cultural Global Connection—these initiatives are enhancing Dunhuang’s visibility on the world stage. The ancient city is increasingly embracing international and technological influences. By innovating while staying true to its roots, the traditional cultural lineage will be rejuvenated in this new era, allowing Chinese culture to exert an even greater influence worldwide.
