The Role of University Art Education in the Inheritance and Innovation of Intangible Cultural Heritage

This paper explores the pivotal role of university art education in the inheritance and innovation of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). Through a literature review and theoretical analysis, it first defines the core concepts of university art education and ICH, while examining the dialectical relationship between traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation. The study highlights that universities not only transmit traditional skills effectively through structured curricula and faculty training but also infuse modern creativity into cultural traditions via interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of industry, academia, and research. The paper further discusses current institutional challenges in the inheritance process and proposes strategies — such as pedagogical reform, resource integration, and social engagement — to promote the innovative development of ICH. These suggestions aim to provide theoretical support and practical inspiration for university art education and cultural heritage practices.