Bi Zhiguang - Inheritor of Liger Mask in Shilin County, Kunming 

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.