Paper-cutting takes center stage at North Carolina State University

The wonderful Chinese art of paper-cutting recently took center stage at an event in a university in the United States.

Zhang Baohong from Shanxian county – located in Heze city in East China's Shandong province – introduced the ancient and vibrant tradition to North Carolina State University students in a recent cultural exchange activity, entitled Discovering Shandong: Paper-Cutting Culture.

Chinese paper-cutting – also known as jianzhi – involves cutting delicate designs from paper.

This traditional craft, deeply rooted in the country's culture, serves as a medium for expressing wishes for prosperity and good fortune. As a result, it has given rise to numerous symbols of luck – such as gourds, which in Chinese sound like the Fu Lu, the phrase for happiness and wealth.

Another common paper-cutting subject is the dragon, a well-known figure in mythology. Despite its complex description in ancient texts, skilled paper-cut artists can breathe life into their dragon creations.

Notably, paper-cutting is a cherished tradition during festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese New Year. People use paper-cut decorations to embellish their homes and public spaces, contributing to the festive atmosphere.

North Carolina State University students show off paper-cutting artworks given by Zhang Baohong. [Photo by Zhang Baohong for chinadaily.com.cn]

The activity at North Carolina State University gave American students a special opportunity to immerse themselves in the art of Chinese paper-cutting.

The goal was to strengthen the bonds between China and the United States, to foster a deeper understanding among their peoples and to promote cultural exchanges. (Edited by Zhou Yunlai)