The UNESCO East Asia Regional Office has officially opened applications for the Phase V Workshop of the "Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) as Fashion" Capacity-Building Programme (2025–2026). Focusing on technological translation of ICH and fashion innovation, the workshop will be held in April 2026 at Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT). It is jointly organized by BIFT and the International Centre for Creativity and Sustainable Development (ICCSD) under the auspices of UNESCO. This workshop centers on the application of AIGC and digital technologies in the creative transformation of ICH into fashion. Structured around three modules: decoding, empowering, and constructing, the programme features a six-day intensive curriculum alongside a final project showcase.
The programme has previously been held in Hangzhou, online, Zhuhai, and Chengdu, establishing a cross-border co-creation platform for ICH inheritors, designers, and emerging scholars. It has become a leading initiative for interdisciplinary integration of ICH and fashion in the East Asia region.
Programme Overview
·Theme: Technological Translation of ICH and Fashion Innovation.
·Date: April 2026 (6 days).
·Venue: Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology.
·Organizers: Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT); International Centre for Creativity and Sustainable Development (ICCSD), UNESCO.
·Content: AIGC and digital-driven innovation in ICH-inspired fashion, including structured courses and a final project showcase.
Target Participants
·New Participants: Open to ICH inheritors, emerging designers, brand founders, and students in design-related fields. Applicants should have a solid background in design, strong interest in ICH and digital fashion, and good cross-cultural communication skills. There are only 10 open slots for new participants. The total cohort size is 40 participants, including 30 alumni from previous phases. New participants may join Phase V independently.
·Advisory Experts: Scholars and practitioners in digital media art, sustainable fashion, brand management, and related fields.
·Academic Volunteers and Co-creation Assistants：Master’s students in design-related disciplines.
Application Information
·Target Regions: East Asia and Southeast Asia (on-site participation required).
·Application Deadline: March 20, 2026.
·Required Materials:
Application Form (download link: https://city.cri.cn/20260212/681476c7-c82c-af88-4473-37f6487d7dbb.html?sessionid=）.
Portfolio (demonstrating previous work in ICH, fashion, or related fields).
CV and a one-page summary.
·Submission Email: c2030@unesco-iccsd.com.
Note: All applications will undergo a selection process. Applicants will be evaluated based on submitted materials and programme requirements. Shortlisted candidates will be notified of further participation details.