At just three years old, Cao Hongxia took her first step into the mesmerizing world of papercutting by crafting a paper flower from a torn Spring Festival couplet. Little did she know, this moment would mark the beginning of a lifelong passion that would connect generations.
Cao, a fifth-generation papercutting artist from Yulin in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, grew up under the soft glow of kerosene lamps, watching her family transform paper into intricate designs. “I often get asked when I started papercutting, and my answer is: ‘Maybe when I was in my mom’s womb,'” she joked.
Inspired by the rich tapestry of northern Shaanxi’s culture, Cao incorporates folk songs, local customs, and proverbs into her vibrant works. Each piece she creates is a vivid snapshot of her heritage, capturing the soul of the region.
In 2014, Cao’s artistry reached international shores when she crafted multicolored papercut portraits for Michelle Obama and her family during the then-U.S. first lady’s visit to Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi Province. This recognition highlighted the universal appeal of her traditional art.
But for Cao, papercutting is more than an art form—it’s a cultural legacy that must be preserved. “To carry forward folk art, we need to integrate it into our families and communities,” she said. She’s passionate about inspiring younger generations to pick up the scissors and paper, ensuring that this intangible cultural heritage continues to thrive.
Through her dedication, Cao Hongxia not only keeps the centuries-old tradition alive but also bridges the past with the present, weaving love and artistry into every delicate cut.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
