Shandong district pioneers intangible cultural heritage preservation

Kuiwen district in Weifang, Shandong province, has placed a strong emphasis on the preservation and promotion of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). The district has actively made efforts to safeguard and advance ICH and is seeing significant achievements.

With a keen focus on revitalizing the lineage of ICH, Kuiwen has improved its investigation and documentation systems, established a comprehensive database of ICH resources, and ensured the proper conservation of relevant artifacts and materials. To date, the district has successfully applied for 33 ICH projects at various levels, with 36 recognized inheritors.

Moreover, Kuiwen has secured over 3 million yuan ($423,500) in dedicated funding for ICH initiatives, facilitating the development of versatile facilities for heritage preservation and experiential learning. Across the district, more than 40 diverse sites have been established to safeguard and promote ICH.

One notable example is the walnut carving art museum in Kuiwen, where the works of ICH inheritor Tian Hongbo are prominently displayed. His masterpiece collection That Era has garnered acclaim such as the prestigious Shanhua Award. 

"With the guidance and support of the Kuiwen district government, I have established an intangible heritage base in my studio, facilitating discussions, exchanges, and training for individuals interested in cultural and intangible heritage preservation," said Tian. (Edited by Du Xiaping)

One piece of the award-winning walnut carving collection That Era by Tian Hongbo. [Photo by Tao Yanbo/For chinadaily.com.cn]