ETHNOCULTURAL ASPECTS OF DECORATIVE AND APPLIED ARTS IN THE EDUCATIONAL SPACE OF HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

The article explores the ethnocultural aspects of decorative and applied arts in the context of training higher education students. It reveals the role of traditional artistic practices in shaping national identity, aesthetic thinking, and professional competencies of future specialists. The expediency of integrating ethnomotifs into the educational and professional programs “Graphic Design” and “Art in Educational Institutions” at Zhytomyr Ivan Franko State University is substantiated. The technological process of ornament creation is described, including the analysis of regional features (in particular, Zhytomyr region), the development of sketches, and the digital interpretation of ethnocultural motifs using both professional and free software, as well as online services. The possibilities of applying digital tools for creating ornamental compositions and design products are highlighted. The empirical basis of the study consists of the results of students’ practical tasks, as well as survey data regarding their level of awareness of ethnocultural heritage. It was found that 78% of students have a general understanding of ethnomotifs, while only 42% are familiar with regional features of ornaments. It was also revealed that 65% of students apply ethnomotifs in their own works, and 84% consider their integration into the educational process to be appropriate. It is proven that the integration of ethnocultural components in combination with digital technologies contributes to the development of creative thinking, increases learning motivation, and fosters the ability for cultural representation. It is summarized that decorative and applied arts serve as an effective tool for training a modern designer and artist.