Dali, nestled in the mountains of Yunnan province in the Chinese mainland, has become a bucket-list stop for travelers seeking a more mindful way of life. Its winding lanes and lakeside views set the stage for a vibrant tradition: the art of color by the Bai people. 🌄
The Bai name means white in Chinese, a nod to purity and elegance. But when it comes to hues, the Bai are anything but minimalists. From the earth beneath their feet to the plants around them, these artists squeeze out pigments that capture seasons and stories. 🌱
Take peasant paintings: farmers and weavers mix highland soil with water to create natural paints. The result is dreamy landscapes on cloth and wood, scenes that feel like fresh memories of mountain mists and paddy fields. Each brushstroke is a handshake with the land, grounded in centuries of Bai heritage. 🏞️
Then there is the indigo tie-dye, a true mood booster. Artisans soak fabric in vats of plant-based indigo—watching patterns bloom like fireworks when they tie, fold, and unfold each piece. The deep blues and stark whites dance together, turning simple cloth into wearable art. 👘✨
For the Asian diaspora and global trendseters alike, these colors offer more than eye candy—they are an invitation to connect with tradition and sustainability. Whether you are a student sketching your next masterpiece or a traveler hunting for authentic experiences, Dali’s palette is waiting to color your story. 🧳🎒
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
