Meet Zhao Min: Weaving a brighter future

Master craftswoman Zhao Min quite literally serves as a beacon of tradition and innovation in her workshop in Renzhuang village – located in Datun town, administered by Dongming county, in Heze city in East China's Shandong province.

As an official inheritor tasked with teaching and passing on to future generations Caozhou weaving, a so-called Chinese intangible cultural heritage item, Zhao not only upholds the rich legacy of her craft but also inspires her community towards prosperity.

The city of Heze was formally known as Caozhou and the weaving named after it is a traditional handicraft with a long history. It originated from the knotting techniques practiced by women from prominent families in the Caozhou region during the Ming and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties.

Caozhou, an ancient place name in Shandong province, encompasses 10 counties and the prefecture of Puzhou.

Zhao's passion for weaving ignited in her childhood under the tuition of her mother. With meticulous attention to detail, she honed her skills while mastering traditional rope weaving techniques and cultivating a deep-seated interest in her craft.

Zhao Min focuses completely on weaving a flower. [Photo by Xue Bo for chinadaily.com.cn]

To Zhao, weaving transcends mere fabric; it is a canvas for artistic expression deeply rooted in daily life. From clothing to household items, each piece she creates carries a unique blend of natural simplicity and vibrant creativity.

Driven by a desire to share her expertise and uplift her community, she envisions expanding her studio to welcome fellow sisters from neighboring communities. Her goal is to provide these women with opportunities for both learning and earning, empowering them to leverage their newfound skills for personal and communal advancement.

Through Zhao's dedication and vision, the art of weaving not only endures but flourishes, weaving a brighter future for generations to come. (Edited by Zhou Yunlai)