🎨✨ In the heart of Kaifeng, a city steeped in history in China's Henan Province, a centuries-old lantern tradition is being illuminated once more. The Bianjing Lantern Zhang, a delicate craft passed down through the Zhang family for seven generations, is finding new life in the hands of eager children learning to create their first lanterns.
Meet Zhang Juntao, the seventh-generation inheritor of this luminous legacy. Recognized in 2008 as a part of the nation's intangible cultural heritage, the Bianjing Lantern Zhang is more than just a craft—it’s a symbol of cultural identity and artistic expression. Zhang is on a mission to keep this tradition glowing 🌟 by sharing his knowledge with the youth.
\"When you light a lantern, you light up a part of our shared heritage,\" says Zhang, his eyes reflecting the flicker of lantern lights. He's opened workshops where kids not only learn the meticulous art of lantern-making but also the stories and values woven into each design.
For many of these young artisans, it's a chance to connect with their roots and add their own spark to an age-old practice. With colorful papers, bamboo frames, and a dash of creativity, they are crafting more than lanterns—they're igniting a passion for culture and artistry that transcends generations.
As festivals approach, the streets of Kaifeng will soon shimmer with the glow of lanterns both old and new, each one a testament to the enduring spirit of tradition meeting the enthusiasm of youth. 🏮❤️
In a world that's ever-changing, it's heartwarming to see how the light of heritage continues to shine, one lantern at a time.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
