Think you know what Chinese art is? Think again.
China might be known for painting, calligraphy, and pottery, but these aren’t the only traditional arts that exist. If you are in NYC this week, then you can discover different forms of Chinese art at Asia Week in New York City.
Not in New York? Well, here is a list of traditional Chinese art forms that you should check out.
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1 Sugar painting
Originating from the Ming Dynasty, this resembles a sweeter version of glass sculpting. Hot melted sugar is drizzled from a ladle onto a flat surface, and the sugary figure is removed with a spatula once it has cooled and solidified. The best part? It is completely edible! This makes it a popular snack with children...though its a pity to eat something so beautiful.
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2 Fruit pit carving
What do you do with your fruit pits after you finish eating the fruit? Throw them away? Not for the artists who practice fruit pit carving! Using various fruit pits, these artists transform waste into wonders and bring new life to what would otherwise be discarded. The intricate carvings can tell stories or convey messages of wisdom. These are truly a sight to behold.
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3 Papercutting
You might have seen these intricate decorations being displayed during Chinese New Year. They are created by making precise cuts on red paper with scissors or a cutting knife. These decorations convey messages of good fortune and greetings.
In ancient China, a woman with superior papercutting ability was considered more 'marriageable'.
One papercutting artist that stands out is Bovey Lee, a Hong Kong native based in Los Angeles. Her modern interpretation of traditional papercutting is definitely worth a look.
Images from the Gavlak Gallery
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