In the heart of Urumqi, the capital of China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, artisan Meng Lulu is on a mission to keep the ancient art of leather carving alive. For over a decade, she has dedicated herself to preserving this intricate craft, passing down its traditions to future generations.
Leather carving is a meticulous art form that involves pressing, stretching, punching, etching, and dyeing plant-tanned leather to create unique patterns. Rooted in the nomadic cultures of the grasslands, this centuries-old craft has been an integral part of China’s cultural heritage.
Meng’s fascination with leatherwork began in her childhood. Inspired by the exquisite carvings on saddles and the graceful lines of handcrafted whips, she developed a deep appreciation for the artistry involved. After graduating from university, Meng traveled to Inner Mongolia to apprentice under Li Siqin, a master of leather carving and an intangible cultural heritage inheritor.
Through years of dedicated study and practice, Meng honed her skills and eventually established her own leather carving studio in Urumqi. There, she continues to refine her art, creating works that blend traditional techniques with contemporary designs.
But Meng’s passion extends beyond her own creations. Committed to cultural preservation and community development, she has trained hundreds of apprentices in the art of leather carving. She also conducts workshops for herders in the region, integrating her craft into poverty alleviation initiatives. Through these efforts, Meng not only keeps the ancient art alive but also empowers others, contributing to the cultural and economic vitality of her community.
“I believe that traditional crafts like leather carving carry the soul of our culture,” says Meng. “It’s important to keep them alive and share them with the world.”
