Weaving the art of Zhuang embroidery into everyday life

BEIJING -- Sitting at a local embroidery workshop nestled in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Lan Lin, an embroidery artist and deputy to the National People's Congress (NPC), is busy crafting a special needlework featuring traditional loong, or Chinese dragon.

"The image of the loong embodies a blend of cartoonish charm and modern flair, but its body patterns and stitching techniques remain rooted in traditional Zhuang embroidery," Lan explained, adding that she hopes to introduce the traditional art to more young people by infusing her creations with trendy design elements.

Zhuang embroidery is a traditional art form with vibrant cultural characteristics of China's Zhuang ethnic group, and is listed as a regional-level intangible cultural heritage.

As a representative inheritor of the art form, Lan has committed herself to promoting Zhuang embroidery. Her dedication shines through not only in her creative endeavors but also in the proposals she has submitted as a deputy to China's top legislative body.

According to Lan, since becoming a deputy to the 14th NPC, she has focused more on the development of the Zhuang embroidery industry instead of her own artistic efforts.

She actively reached out to the people engaged in this industry, gathered their opinions, and relayed them to the annual "two sessions," which are China's annual legislative and political consultative sessions.

Last year, Lan proposed enhancing communication and exchanges with ASEAN countries regarding intangible cultural heritage, a suggestion that has been successfully put into action. Another suggestion she made, aimed at leveraging the role of intangible cultural heritage in rural revitalization, garnered positive responses from relevant departments. These experiences have bolstered Lan's confidence and drive in fulfilling her duties as a deputy.

While gathering opinions, Lan found that cultural heritage preservation hinges on creating a larger market for related products. Therefore, this year, Lan plans to propose the establishment of smaller exhibition venues showcasing intangible cultural heritage near popular tourist destinations in urban areas, where visitors can access relevant information and purchase products by scanning QR codes.

"Cultural heritage must become visible and seamlessly integrated into people's lives. Incorporating cultural heritage products into our daily lives is the best way to preserve them," Lan said.