A discussion on the theoretical framework of empowering the interpretation of cultural symbols by artificial intelligence

Abstract

Under the backdrop of globalization and digitalization, the efficacy of cultural symbol interpretation directly affects the construction of national community consciousness. This study takes the mixed public art landscapes of Xiangshan, Portuguese style, and Bay Area culture in the "One Country, Two Systems" convergence point of Hengqin as a case, using the "technology - symbol - identity" analytical framework and mixed research methods to explore the mechanism of AI empowering the modern interpretation of cultural symbols. The study defines AI as a "symbol extraction tool" rather than a meaning-interpretation subject. Through three dimensions of big data mining, computer vision analysis, and AIGC/VR interactive experience, it systematically expands the breadth, depth, and activity of symbol interpretation. The study reveals that cultural symbols, as the "identity codes" and "emotional bonds" of the national community, their modern interpretation needs to balance technological empowerment and meaning protection, promoting cultural identity to transform into community consciousness; the participatory empowerment characteristic of AI can break the elite monopoly of interpretation, but it also faces the risks of algorithm bias and meaning fragmentation. The paper provides theoretical support and practical paths for the planning of public art in cross-border cultural fields.