Shandong artist a beacon for paper-cutting inheritance

In Dongguantun town in Juye county – located in East China's Shandong province, veteran paper-cutting artist Yao Junzi, 84, has gained widespread recognition for her exceptional paper-cutting skills and her dedication to teaching others.

Yao Junzi's artistic talents shine through in her intricate paper-cutting pieces, which have garnered praise for their attention to detail and expressive designs. [Photo by Xiao Shouxiang for chinadaily.com.cn]

Yao's passion for paper-cutting extends beyond her own creations. She actively shares her knowledge and skillset with students and enthusiasts, aiming to preserve and promote this traditional art form.

Through her workshops and classes, Yao imparts her expertise – inspiring a new generation of artists.

What sets Yao apart is her ability to infuse her paper-cutting with deeper artistic meaning. Her works are widely said to go beyond mere decorative designs and reflect the essence of everyday life.

Each piece tells a story – capturing the beauty of nature, the simplicity of rural life, or the emotions of individuals. Fans say Yao's art transcends the boundaries of traditional paper-cutting, elevating it to a form of life art.

Despite the modernization of art forms, Yao remains committed to upholding the traditions and values of paper-cutting.

Through her dedication, she hopes to encourage others to appreciate the significance of preserving and revitalizing traditional crafts in today's fast-paced world. (Edited by Jin Yongxue)