Ye Juan -  Inheritor of Dai Brocade Textile Craft in Mengyang Town, Jinghong 

Ye Juan (real name: Zhou Lanying) is a distinguished Dai brocade artisan from Manlonggang Village (曼龙岗村), Mengyang Town (勐养镇), Jinghong City (景洪市), Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州), Yunnan Province. She is widely respected as a National Representative Inheritor of Intangible Cultural Heritage, dedicating her life to the preservation, innovation, and promotion of Dai brocade.

Quick Profile

? Artistic Journey and Innovation

Early Training

Born into a family of Dai brocade weavers, Ye Juan was introduced to this ancient craft by her mother, Yula. At the age of 11, she began practicing weaving, and by 13, she was already able to operate the loom independently. After nearly four decades of continuous dedication, her artistry has reached a highly refined and masterful level.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation

While deeply rooted in tradition, Ye Juan has also embraced creativity. She pioneered the white-cloth, black-flower patterned brocade, which became her signature style. This unique form of Dai brocade has gained special admiration among international collectors, with her works entering private collections in Japan, the United States, and the Netherlands.

? Legacy and Social Impact

Cultivating New Generations

As a cultural figure recognized within her community, Ye Juan actively fulfills her role as a heritage bearer. She has already trained apprentices, including Ye Xiangbao and her daughter-in-law Yu Ai, ensuring that the craft continues to be passed down.

Continuing Her Mission

As of May 2025, official records confirm that Ye Juan remains actively engaged in intangible heritage preservation. She has signed new agreements with local authorities to carry on her teaching and training work.

Economic Contributions

Beyond cultural significance, her brocade weaving has brought tangible benefits to her community. At one point, weaving income made up one-quarter of her household’s economy, highlighting how intangible heritage can also serve as a driver for local development.

? Conclusion

Ye Juan is not only a master artisan but also a bridge between the ancient Dai cultural tradition and the modern world. From the small village of Manlonggang (曼龙岗村) to the global stage, she demonstrates how intangible cultural heritage can remain vibrant, relevant, and inspiring. Through her exquisite skills and creative spirit, Dai brocade continues to thrive—woven with both history and innovation.