Contemporary translation strategies for traditional decorative language: a study of craft narratives in guo pei's works

Abstract

This study explores translation strategies for traditional decorative language within contemporary fashion design, focusing on how craftsmanship is transformed into narrative expression in Guo Pei's works. Through literature review and case analysis of representative pieces, combined with design translation theory and decorative structure analysis, it systematically examines the decorative reconfiguration and craft enhancement pathways in works such as ‘Golden Splendor’, ‘Blue and White Porcelain’, ‘Palace Blossoms’, ‘The Tale of the Dragon’, Phoenix Seeking the Phoenix‘, ’Lotus-Born Noble Son Coat‘, and ’Fish-Water Harmony Skirt." Findings indicate that through restructuring ornamental frameworks and amplifying craft materiality, Guo Pei transforms traditional decorative language from ancillary visual symbols into structural expressions with narrative function, achieving innovative translation of traditional craftsmanship within contemporary design contexts.