Hi David,
Interesting post, abet a rather long rhetoric.
I have also been thinking about this as well, but more from an Asian (of which China is part of) context.
Having worked in, with and around China for a number of years, the challenges of Chinese Inspired Designs has to do with localization and confidence.
Localization has to do with developing designs UNIQUE to china. ie, ChiPao dresses, Ching dynasty architecture, jade pendants etc. But the problem is that rather than interpreting such wonderful unique cultural identities and modernize them, designers are instead looking to the West, adopting a western style and then making it more Chinese. It is a subtle difference and reframe.
The second part is confidence. Confidence that the design unique to china can become popular. A great example is Javanese Furniture from Indonesia, it is very popular in the west and has quietly become a unique Indonesian/Javanese style. Another good one closer to China is Shanghai Tang’s Han clothing inspirations. In my mind, Shanghai Tang is the closest brand to creating something uniquely Chinese.
Saris from India, Swedish furniture, German automotive all follow a similar track record. A unique local look, language, and design relevant to the culture of that country, then gains popularity overseas due to its uniqueness and cultural references.
Until China has the confidence to celebrate their own creations first, Chinese inspired designs will not be able to influence the world.