Zhang Qingshan (张庆山), born in 1946, is a master of traditional pottery-making in Longquan Town (龙泉镇), Panlong District (盘龙区), Kunming (昆明). He hails from Xiaoyao Village (小窑村), located in the Baoyun Subdistrict (宝云办事处) of Kunming.
A Family Tradition of Pottery
Zhang comes from a long line of potters, with his family specializing in earthware pottery. Growing up under the influence of his father, he began learning pottery techniques at a young age.
Training and Early Work
In 1962, when Zhang’s father reconstructed a kiln factory, Zhang formally entered the pottery industry as an apprentice. During this period, he primarily crafted everyday household items such as water jars, pottery pots, flower pots, and traditional talismans like the “tile cats” used in local rural areas to ward off evil and protect homes. However, due to historical circumstances, the pottery factory ceased production.
Revival of Pottery-making in 1975
In 1975, Zhang, deeply passionate about traditional folk pottery, revived his father’s pottery kiln. He began training six apprentices, passing down the family’s craft. Today, his two sons continue this legacy, inheriting the pottery-making skills and ensuring the tradition endures.
Zhang’s pottery-making skills have garnered attention from local media, with both Yunnan Television and Kunming Television featuring him in interviews and documentary segments.
For more details, please visit the original source: Yunnan Cultural Heritage.
Luo Zhuxiang (罗竹香), born in 1926, is a renowned paper-cut artist from Guandu District (官渡区) in Kunming (昆明), where she currently resides in the Cultural Center Dormitory.
A Family Tradition of Paper-cutting
Luo was raised in a rural environment and hails from a family with a rich legacy of paper-cut artistry. Both her grandmother and mother were celebrated paper-cut artists in the local community, and the family’s craftsmanship has been passed down for over a century.
Early Beginnings in Paper-cutting
Luo began her journey with paper-cutting at the age of 12, learning the craft from her mother. She showed remarkable talent not only in paper-cutting but also in embroidery. By the age of 20, she was already creating her own designs, drawing inspiration from folk tales and translating them into intricate paper-cut patterns.
Recognition and Achievements
Luo’s artistic achievements were first featured in Yunnan Daily (《云南日报》) in 1957, marking the beginning of widespread recognition for her work. She is affectionately known as the “Flower Cutting Lady” (剪花婆) and is considered the leading figure in Guandu’s paper-cutting traditions.
Her works are not only widely used in local folklore but have also been showcased in numerous prestigious exhibitions, such as national arts and crafts exhibitions and joint exhibitions with 25 provinces and cities. Throughout her career, Luo has received multiple awards for her outstanding contributions to the craft of paper-cutting.
For more details, please visit the original source: Yunnan Cultural Heritage.
Introduction
Lu Guangcai (陆光才), born in 1947 in Lujiaying Village (陆家营村), Fuhai Township (福海乡), Xishan District (西山区), Kunming (昆明), is a master artisan known for his expertise in Tunkou drawing, a traditional folk art that has been passed down through generations. Influenced by his mother, a folk paper-cutting artist, Lu developed a deep love for folk arts and crafts from a young age.
What is Tunkou Drawing?
Tunkou is a traditional folk art form where a gourd ladle (or other similar objects) is decorated with intricate drawings, usually featuring a tiger head on its convex surface. The tiger head symbolizes protection against evil spirits and is believed to have the power to drive away harmful forces. This decorative practice has long been a part of local customs, especially in the Fuhai area.
Lu Guangcai’s Artistic Journey
Lu Guangcai was exposed to folk art early in life, particularly the practice of Tunkou, which was a common custom in his hometown—hanging these decorated gourds at the entrance of homes for protective purposes. His passion for this art form grew as he matured, and in the 1980s, inspired by the folk art movement, he began producing Tunkou in larger quantities. His works gained significant attention and have been widely collected by various prestigious institutions and private collectors.
Recognition and Artistic Impact
Lu’s Tunkou drawings have been featured in numerous exhibitions and have garnered widespread recognition. His works have been collected by:
- China Folk Art Museum (中国民间美术博物馆)
- Yunnan Academy of Painting (云南画院)
- Yunnan Provincial Mass Art Museum (云南省群众艺术馆)
His works have also been featured in media outlets and have been widely praised for their craftsmanship and cultural significance.
Notable Achievements
- Hong Kong Exhibition: In 1991, Lu was invited to perform live at an exhibition in Hong Kong, showcasing his Tunkou drawing techniques.
- Teaching Role: In 1996, Lu was appointed as a demonstration teacher for folk art courses at the Department of Ethnic Arts, Yunnan Nationalities University, where he shared his knowledge with future generations of folk artists.
Legacy
Lu Guangcai is considered a master of Tunkou drawing and has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting this unique form of folk art. His dedication has helped to ensure that this traditional craft continues to thrive, both in Kunming and beyond.
For more details, visit the Chinese version.
Introduction
Bi Zhiguang (毕志光), born in 1949, is a member of the Yi ethnic group (彝族) from Xiaoguishan Village (小圭山村), Guishan Township (圭山乡), Shilin County (石林县), Kunming (昆明). A local primary school teacher, Bi is widely recognized for his craftsmanship in creating traditional lion and tiger masks, a crucial element in Yi funeral customs.
Cultural Background of the Craft
In the Shilin area, the Yi people practice a funeral tradition known as the “Lion-Tiger Dance,” where performers don lion and tiger masks to guide the deceased’s spirit on its journey to the afterlife. The masks are intricately crafted and hold deep cultural significance.
Bi Zhiguang’s Artistic Journey
Bi developed an early passion for art and was mentored by skilled artists, which fueled his interest in mask-making. Despite his career as a teacher, he dedicated himself to preserving and innovating the art of crafting these lion and tiger masks, which were at risk of being lost. Over the past 30 years, Bi has crafted more than 500 masks, earning him widespread recognition.
Techniques and Artistic Approach
Bi employs two distinct methods in his mask-making process:
- Exaggerated Style: This technique emphasizes bold, exaggerated features to convey the fierce, dominating nature of the lion and tiger, reflecting their mythical power and invincibility.
- Realistic Style: In contrast, Bi also creates masks that are highly detailed and lifelike, capturing the true essence of the animals.
Regardless of the style, Bi’s masks are beloved by the local community for their artistic value and spiritual significance.
Recognition and Collections
Bi Zhiguang’s work has gained recognition both locally and nationally. Some of his masks were collected by prestigious institutions, including:
- Beijing National Cultural Palace: Acquired five of his works in 1991.
- Yunnan Provincial Museum: Collected more than ten pieces in 1986.
- Provincial and Municipal Art Galleries: His works are also housed in various cultural institutions across Yunnan, further solidifying his reputation as a master artisan.
Legacy and Influence
Through his dedication to preserving this unique cultural craft, Bi has become an important cultural inheritor in Shilin County, ensuring the continuation of this centuries-old tradition for future generations.
For more details, visit the Chinese version.
Zhang Fei – Inheritor of Deang Water Drum Dance in Ruili City, Dehong
瑞丽市勐秀乡德昂族水鼓舞传承人 – 张飞
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-1859.html
Zhang Dehe – Inheritor of Buzha Artistry in Jianchuan County, Dali
大理州剑川县布扎传承人 – 张德和
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2519.html
Early Life and Background
Yuan Yulan (袁狱兰), born in 1918, is from Xiaodang Village (小当村) in Majinpuxiang Township (马金铺乡), Chenggong County (呈贡县), Kunming (昆明). Raised by her grandfather, a feng shui master, she learned much about local customs and traditions, which influenced her later work.
After the early death of her husband, Yuan faced economic challenges, leading her to teach herself various traditional crafts. These included paper-cutting, embroidery, and colored paper sculpture, where she created decorative patterns for everyday items such as waistbands, shoe insoles, shoes, and curtain edges.
Craftsmanship and Legacy
With over 60 years of experience, Yuan has become a highly respected figure in folk arts. She is credited with designing many original shoe flower patterns that have been widely used in Chenggong and Kunming. Her intricate designs are known for their vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship.
One of Yuan’s most notable contributions is her colored paper horses, which have become popular in her community. Additionally, she is the only local artist capable of explaining the cultural significance behind funeral decorations made from colored paper, making her a unique and influential figure in the region. Her deep knowledge of the cultural and ritualistic aspects of her craft, combined with her artistic talent, has earned her a high level of recognition and admiration.
Legacy and Recognition
Yuan Yulan is highly regarded in her community and beyond, particularly for her contributions to the local folk arts. Her works are not only seen as beautiful pieces of craftsmanship but also as a reflection of the region’s cultural heritage. Through her artistic expressions, Yan Yulan has helped preserve important elements of Chenggong’s folk traditions.
For more details, visit the original article.
Background and Early Life
Zheng Qikuan (郑其宽), born in 1919, hails from Zhengjiaying Village (郑家营村), Wujiaying Township (吴家营乡), Chenggong County (呈贡县), Kunming (昆明). He is a master artist known for his work in folk paintings focused on Chinese sages and deities.
Mastery of Sages’ Folk Paintings
In Chenggong, a traditional form of folk painting, known as “Sages’ Paintings” (圣贤画), is highly popular. These paintings often depict sages from Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian traditions, as well as the God of Wealth (财神). The paintings are typically displayed in homes to represent respect and worship for these revered figures. They often replace the central position of a family altar, symbolizing the family’s reverence for various spiritual figures and ancestors.
Zheng Qikuan began learning the art of painting Chinese sages and creating colored paper models (彩扎) from his father at a young age. His paintings are known for their vivid and accurate depictions of the sages, drawn primarily with bold outlines and lightly applied colors. The figures he portrays exhibit various postures, blending solemnity and reverence with a touch of kindness and compassion. His works are notable for their grace and dignity, with a focus on serenity and spiritual depth.
Contributions to Folk Craft
Apart from painting, Zheng Qikuan is also skilled in the craft of colored paper models, a form of traditional Chinese decorative art. These paper models, known as 彩扎 (colored paper sculptures), are often used in funeral rites as well as celebrations and festivals in rural areas. Zheng’s creations include lively dragons, lions, lanterns, and colorful boats, all designed to meet the needs of local celebrations. His paper models have become highly regarded for their vibrant and joyful expression, earning him significant local fame and recognition.
Legacy and Recognition
Zheng Qikuan’s work has gained widespread popularity in the Chenggong area and beyond, where his creations are admired for their lively spirit and cultural significance. His dedication to preserving these traditional forms of artistic expression has made him a respected figure in the local artistic community.
For more details, visit the original article.
Background and Early Life
Dai Zongyi (代宗义), born in 1942, hails from Dai Jia Village (代家村) in Changmaidi Administrative Area (长麦地办事处), Jiaoxi Township (皎西乡), Luquan County (禄劝县), Kunming (昆明). He is a renowned inheritor of the ancient art of dyeing wool tapestry, a skill passed down through his family for generations. The craft dates back to the late Qing Dynasty (清朝), and Dai is now the fourth-generation practitioner.
Mastery of Wool Tapestry Dyeing
Dai began learning the craft at the age of 13 and has practiced it continuously throughout his life. Wool tapestry, known locally for its durability and moisture-resistant properties, is a highly valued material for various practical uses. To enhance its aesthetic appeal, the technique of dyeing the wool tapestry was developed, turning the plain fabric into colorful, decorative pieces.
Dai’s family has relied on this skill for their livelihood, and under Dai Zongyi’s leadership, the dyeing technique has reached new heights of excellence. Through years of practice, Dai has mastered the intricate steps involved in the dyeing process, becoming a highly skilled artisan. His dyed wool tapestry is not only widely used locally but also in demand in regions such as the Big and Small Liangshan (大小凉山) in Sichuan, Yuanmou (元谋), Wuding (武定), Chuxiong (楚雄), Shuangbai (双柏), and even Xinjiang.
Legacy and Continued Tradition
Dai Zongyi has passed down his knowledge to his third son, and now all three of his sons are able to independently dye wool tapestry. Through his dedication, the craft continues to thrive, ensuring that this unique cultural heritage is preserved and adapted to meet modern demands.
For further details, please visit the original article.
Background and Early Life
Chen Guowen (陈国稳), born in 1958, is a prominent inheritor of the Yi (彝族) embroidery tradition from Mei Jia Village (梅家村) in Sa Yingpan Town (撒营盘镇), Sa Laowu Administrative Area (撒老乌办事处), Luquan County (禄劝县), Kunming (昆明). From a young age, she showed great interest in embroidery and started learning at the age of 15 or 16. Initially, she crafted decorative items and later expanded her skills to include pattern drawing, an area in which she has excelled for decades.
Mastery of Embroidery and Pattern Drawing
Over the years, Chen Guowen has become highly skilled in both embroidery and creating intricate patterns. She is capable of drawing patterns according to customer requirements with remarkable speed and precision. A simple pattern typically takes only a few minutes to complete, while more complex designs may take around 10 to 20 minutes.
Chen’s work primarily features Yi ethnic clothing, bags, pillowcases, waistbands, and other accessories. Her designs often incorporate motifs like flowers, birds, dragons, phoenixes, butterflies, fish, and insects, all of which hold symbolic meanings in Yi culture.
Local Recognition and Market Influence
Chen’s embroidery has gained widespread recognition, not only in Sa Yingpan but also in other towns such as Shuanghua (双化), Jiaoxi (皎西), and Tuanjie (团街). She frequently sells her creations at local markets, and her work has earned a high level of acclaim for its fine quality and cultural significance.
Cultural Significance
Through her dedication to the craft, Chen Guowen has played a vital role in preserving and promoting the traditional embroidery skills of the Yi ethnic group. Her work ensures that this unique art form continues to thrive, blending tradition with contemporary elements and keeping the cultural heritage alive for future generations.
For further details, please visit the original article.
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2523.html
Personal Profile
Name: Dao Shuming
Ethnicity: Dai
Date of Birth: May 1934
Hometown: Jinglong (景龙), Menghai County (勐海县), Yunnan Province
Artistic Training
Dao Shuming began school at the age of 9 but only attended for two years. At 11, following Dai customs, he entered a Buddhist temple as a novice monk, where he learned the old Dai script. During his time in the temple, he taught himself painting and carving, displaying remarkable artistic talent. At 20, he was promoted to the rank of second-level monk (二佛爷), and at 25, he left monastic life. In October 1958, he was recruited by the county cultural center to engage in public art initiatives.
Artistic Achievements
Mural Creations
Dao Shuming’s murals hold significant artistic value. In 1996, he created a mural depicting the Dai folktale Yuxiangdala (玉香达拉) at Jinglong Temple (景龙佛寺), spanning 60 meters in length and 2 meters in width—the largest temple mural in Menghai County (勐海县). His works are characterized by vibrant colors, intricate compositions, and rich subject matter, showcasing Dai customs and Buddhist narratives.
Clay Sculptures
Dao Shuming also excelled in clay carving and sculpture. He crafted over 100 Buddha statues for various villages, with his most notable work being the Buddha statue at Jinglong Temple (景龙佛寺). Additionally, he sculpted 25 stupas, including the renowned Shuibai Pagoda (水白塔) in Menghai (勐海).
Paper-Cutting Art
His paper-cut artworks, often featuring peacocks, elephants, and deer, were primarily used to adorn temple walls and pillars, embodying strong ethnic cultural elements.
Legacy and Influence
Beyond his personal artistic accomplishments, Dao Shuming actively mentored the next generation of artists. He trained four apprentices—Yan Wenban (岩温班), Yan Xie (岩些), Yan Zaiying (岩宰应), and Yan Wenjiao (岩温叫)—all of whom became skilled in traditional clay sculpture. Revered by the Dai people, he was honored with the titles Sala Pajao (撒腊帕召) and Sala Ta (撒腊塔), meaning “Master of Buddha Statues and Stupas.”
Honors and Titles
In September 1986, he received a 25-year service certificate from the Yunnan Provincial Department of Culture. On June 23, 1999, he was named a National Folk Senior Artisan by the same institution. His works frequently won awards at provincial, prefectural, and county exhibitions.
Through his dedication, Dao Shuming not only preserved and propagated Dai mural art but also revitalized it in contemporary society.
For Chinese version please go to:
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2524.html
Yang Wenzhong – Inheritor of Yi Performance ” Axi Dancing in the Moon Light” in Mile County, Honghe
Yang Wenzhong is a skilled inheritor of the Yi ethnic dance “Asi Jueyue” from Xi Yi Town, Mile County, Yunnan Province. Below is a detailed introduction about him:
Personal Background
Yang Wenzhong was born in Xi Yi Town, Mile County, a region known for its rich Yi ethnic culture. From a young age, he was deeply influenced by the local culture and developed a strong interest in crafting traditional Yi musical instruments and ceremonial items.
Craft Features
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Material and Techniques: Yang Wenzhong excels in various traditional musical instrument-making techniques, creating intricate and detailed designs. His works often feature traditional patterns that are significant to the Yi people.
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Artistic Style: His musical instruments are known for their unique style and cultural significance, reflecting the profound heritage of the Yi people.
Cultural Contributions
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Skill Transmission: Yang Wenzhong actively participates in the transmission of intangible cultural heritage. Through teaching and demonstrations, he has passed on the skills of making Yi musical instruments and ceremonial objects to younger generations, ensuring the continuation of these traditional crafts.
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Cultural Promotion: His works and craftsmanship have been showcased in various cultural activities, attracting more attention to Yi culture. Through initiatives like introducing intangible heritage into schools, he has further promoted the spread of Yi culture.
Influence and Honors
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Yang Wenzhong’s skills and contributions have been widely recognized, and he is regarded as one of the key inheritors of Yi culture in Xi Yi Town.
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His works and activities have not only enriched the local cultural life but have also made a positive contribution to the preservation and development of Yi culture
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-1858.html
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Zhang Qingshan (张庆山), born in 1946, is a master of traditional pottery-making in Longquan Town (龙泉镇), Panlong District (盘龙区), Kunming (昆明). He hails from Xiaoyao Village (小窑村), located in...
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Bi Zhiguang – Inheritor of Liger Mask in Shilin County, Kunming
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Zhang Fei – Inheritor of Deang Water Drum Dance in Ruili City, Dehong
Zhang Fei – Inheritor of Deang Water Drum Dance in Ruili City, Dehong 瑞丽市勐秀乡德昂族水鼓舞传承人 – 张飞 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-1859.html...
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Early Life and Background Yuan Yulan (袁狱兰), born in 1918, is from Xiaodang Village (小当村) in Majinpuxiang Township (马金铺乡), Chenggong County (呈贡县), Kunming (昆明). Raised by her grandfather, a...
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Background and Early Life Dai Zongyi (代宗义), born in 1942, hails from Dai Jia Village (代家村) in Changmaidi Administrative Area (长麦地办事处), Jiaoxi Township (皎西乡), Luquan County (禄劝县), Kunming (昆明)....
Chen Guowen – Inheritor of Yi Embroidery Skill in Luquan County, Kunming
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