Vibrant heritage of Hunan crafts

Other forms

In addition to Tujia brocade, other forms of local arts and crafts have developed with times, although their traditional essence has been preserved.

The Xiangxiu style has a history of more than a thousand years as one of China's four major traditional embroideries. Today Xiangxiu inheritors are working on developing and designing more new techniques and products.

Chrysanthemum stone carving is a unique craft in Liuyang city of eastern Hunan that features sophisticated craftsmanship and a high value for collectors.

In 1915, a local chrysanthemum stone carving received a golden award at the Panama-Pacific International Exposition.

A century later, local artists are planning to display their carvings at the 2015 World Expo in Milan, Italy.

To help preserve and pass along chrysanthemum stone carving techniques, the local government has cooperated with vocational schools to cultivate talented carvers each year, said Li Zhou, a veteran master of the craft.

Hunan Arts and Crafts Museum Director Liang Xiangyong said they have been working on organizing a series of activities to further promote the province's art and craft works. He said giving more young people firsthand experience is crucial for inheriting the traditional arts.