ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE-ENHANCED TRADITIONAL ARTS PRESERVATION AND CULTURAL HERITAGE DOCUMENTATION FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The study explored the use of machine learning, computer vision, and digital technologies in the identification, analysis, restoration, and dissemination of indigenous art forms, crafts, and expressions of culture and national identity. The introduction provides background on the relevance of indigenous art forms and how AI can help preserve and document our cultural heritage. Modernization and globalization threaten the traditional art forms, documentation, and preservation practices in Nigeria. The
design of the inquiry was qualitative, with in-depth interviews, oral history collection, and field observations in the Pankshin Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria. The possibilities of AI to capture and safeguard endangered artistic traditions, interpret intricate patterns in historical artifacts, and develop user-friendly digital archives for educational, tourism, and economic outreach are truly extraordinary. It simultaneously tackles several developmental problems and offers technical solutions to the physical artifacts that are deteriorating using AI-based solutions for restoration. Traditional crafts like weaving, pottery, wood, and metalwork can have intricate patterns that can be identified and catalogued using computer vision algorithms. Documentation using AI can facilitate the production of virtual museums and AR experiences, which can also help bring more cultural heritage to people who are not connected to the traditional way. This is a significant economic impact. A nation can create a competitive advantage in the creative economy by creating a range of cultural products, digital content, and heritage tourism products that are enhanced by A.I. Moreover, the technical competencies gained from these programs are valuable for the overall application of AI and digital technologies in the workplace. Implementing the program, however, will need to overcome some barriers, namely funding limitations, skills development of technical staff, and ethical issues related to cultural ownership and community engagement to ensure that technology does not supersede cultural traditional practitioners, but serves them. With that, strategic investment in AI-driven cultural preservation is not only a cultural obligation, but an economic opportunity for sustainable national development, too.