Cao Hongxia, a fifth-generation inheritor of the papercutting tradition from Yulin in Shaanxi Province, is redefining this intangible cultural heritage with her innovative approach. Inspired by her mother's deft hands as a child, Cao embarked on her artistic journey early on, crafting tens of thousands of paper-cut pieces that encapsulate the essence of local customs.
Her work intricately weaves elements of Yulin's farming culture, architectural nuances, and traditional wedding customs into each design, creating a vivid tapestry of the region's heritage. Among her notable innovations is the transformation of folk song lyrics into comic-style paper cuts, effectively telling stories through her art.
In addition to her narrative-driven pieces, Cao has pioneered colored paper-cutting and portrait paper-cutting, pushing the boundaries of this traditional art form. Her dedication not only preserves Shaanxi's rich cultural legacy but also ensures its relevance and appeal to contemporary audiences.
Through her remarkable artistry, Cao Hongxia continues to inspire a new generation of artists and cultural enthusiasts, making papercutting a dynamic and evolving expression of Yulin's enduring traditions.
Reference(s):
In pictures: Intangible cultural heritage in the art of papercutting
cgtn.com
