The Influence of Cultural Heritage Digitalization on the Public Aesthetics – A Case Study of the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes

The applications of digital technology in cultural heritage have subtly and profoundly influenced the breadth and depth of public aesthetics. The objective of the study is to explore how diverse digital technologies impact public aesthetics, taking the digital dissemination and applications of Dunhuang's Mogao Grottoes as an example. Also, it anticipates the potential influence on public aesthetics of the ongoing evolution of technology inc. AIGC and its integration with cultural heritage. The results of the study revealed that digitalization applied in cultural heritage enhances the public aesthetics, while under the rapid development of technology, there are potential concerns of the aesthetic homogeneity, preconceived notions, and the over-emphasis on entertainment value. Future generations might reduce appreciation for authentic, in-person experiences and lead to fixed stereotypes of cultural heritage. Therefore, the thoughtful and balanced integration could better foster the public aesthetics.