Xi'an paper-cutting inheritor shares exquisite skills globally

Tu Yonghong, an intangible cultural heritage inheritor of Xi'an paper-cutting, has taught paper-cutting techniques to thousands of overseas students from over 10 countries in Europe, America, and Southeast Asia through online teaching.

Tu Yonghong runs a paper-cutting studio in Xi'an. [Photo/Visual Xi'an]

Tu runs a paper-cutting studio on a street of cultural artifacts and calligraphy famous at home and abroad in Xi'an. Her studio has been operating for 20 years.

Since childhood, Tu has been learning paper-cutting, and she later studied under masters in the craft. She has developed her style characterized by intricate designs, diverse techniques, and strong artistic expression, earning praise from various sectors.

The studio is adorned with numerous exquisite paper-cut works. Some of her creations serve as distinctive gifts from Shaanxi to foreign guests, and museums in China have collected many.

"I have dedicated my life to paper-cutting. I hope more people can understand and appreciate Xi'an paper-cutting," Tu said.

Tu Yonghong (left) explains Xi’an paper-cutting techniques to an expat. [Photo/Visual Xi'an]

Driven by this pursuit, Tu started teaching paper-cutting online to overseas students in June 2021. Over the past two years, she has taught Xi'an paper-cutting to thousands of overseas students, with enthusiastic responses.

She began teaching paper-cutting to overseas students online due to the need for foreign-related education at the School of Chinese Studies at Xi'an International Studies University.

Therefore, she quickly immersed herself in teaching paper-cutting to overseas students, meticulously studying how to make them enjoy paper-cutting, acquire specific skills, and develop an interest in excellent traditional Chinese culture.

Tu's overseas students range from primary school to university students and often share their experiences during the learning process.

Tu Yonghong's students showcase their paper-cutting works. [Photo/Visual Xi'an]

Students often take photos of their work during paper-cutting classes and send them to Tu Yonghong via the Internet.

Seeing the students' excitement when they master paper-cutting skills, Tu feels her efforts are truly meaningful. "Paper-cutting is ultimately a part of China's excellent traditional culture, and overseas students can develop a liking for Chinese culture through paper-cutting. Perhaps in the future, they will come to China, come to Xi'an. The paper-cutting techniques they have mastered will become a bridge of friendship," she expressed.