AI-ASSISTED PRESERVATION AND CONTEMPORARY TRANSFORMATION OF ISLAMIC GEOMETRIC ART IN PAKISTAN’S TEXTILE DESIGN INDUSTRY

Abstract

Islamic geometric art represents a highly structured visual language grounded in symmetry, repetition, and mathematical precision, forming a core element of Islamic cultural heritage and textile traditions. In Pakistan’s textile design industry, this heritage is increasingly being reinterpreted through artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative models, machine learning systems, and computer-aided design tools. This study investigated the role of AI in preserving the structural integrity of Islamic geometric art while enabling its contemporary transformation into innovative textile designs. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative survey data from textile professionals with qualitative insights from design experts. The findings revealed that AI significantly enhances design innovation, productivity, and pattern generation capabilities; however, concerns remain regarding the loss of cultural and symbolic meaning when AI operates without human oversight. The study further established that human–AI collaboration is essential for maintaining cultural authenticity while maximizing creative potential. Regression analysis confirmed a strong positive relationship between AI adoption and textile design outcomes, explaining a substantial proportion of variance in innovation performance. The study concludes that AI can serve as a powerful tool for heritage-aware textile design when integrated with cultural knowledge frameworks and human expertise, particularly in contexts such as Pakistan where traditional textile arts remain culturally significant.