Paper cutting is the most popular and widely embraced form of folk art in China, boasting a rich history spanning over 1,500 years. This traditional craft has since gained significant recognition. In 2006, the paper cutting technique was included in the first batch of The National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of China. The art form underwent a successful evaluation conducted by the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO in 2009, and was then listed in the esteemed “Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity”.<\/p>\n
The evolution of paper cutting has demonstrated a diverse developmental trend, with contemporary successors incorporating visual cultures of modern society into this traditional art form. This infusion of modern elements has not only preserved the traditional and popular uses of paper cutting but has also elevated it to the status of artistic expression. Moreover, paper cutting has transcended geographical boundaries and gradually become a significant component of international cultural exchange and cooperation, bridging nations through the universal language of art.<\/p>\n
In-store Artwork Exhibition<\/strong><\/p>\n To bring the artwork to life, 10 red paper cuttings crafted by artists from the Hong Kong Arts Centre are displayed in DFS stores. Read on to discover the inspiration behind each artwork:<\/p>\n Meko Cheng, Artist<\/strong><\/p>\n This series of paper cutting artworks features prominent themes of dragons, moonlight, and Chinese calligraphy. Each piece blends diverse materials, including shells, gold leaf, and mesh fabric. With their captivating textures and reflective properties, these materials elegantly enhance the artworks by introducing a luminous sheen and a multidimensional aspect to the otherwise two-dimensional compositions.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Sun Dragon\u201d \u201cBloomed Moon\u201d \u201cPanels with Dragons\u201d Chung Siu Fung, Artist<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cRinging in the New Year through Dragon Dance\u201d \u201cSeeking Guidance from Heaven – Celestial Dragon\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYearning for the Sea – Mythical Flood Dragon\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNew Year – The Peach Blossom Spring\u201d<\/p>\n Wong Wan Ying, Artist<\/p>\n \u201cWealth\u201d \u201cLongevity\u201d \u201cDiving Between the Sky and Sea\u201d Finally, DFS wishes you a prosperous Year of The Dragon. We hope you will “Liberate Your Inner Dragon” and embark on a journey of exploration, self-discovery and transformation in the New Year!<\/p>\n Where Art Meets Tradition: Red Paper Cutting Exhibition<\/strong>
\nUnder the sunlight, natural shells and gold leaf present a glistening play of light, beautifully complementing the dragon’s scales and emphasizing the mystical and revered aura surrounding the creature.<\/p>\n
\nThe theme revolves around the moon, where layers of peony petals seamlessly form a full moon, symbolizing prosperity and completeness within its abundant blossoms. Infused within these blooms lie diverse shades of gold leaf, enhancing the moonlight with a radiant brilliance.<\/p>\n
\nDuring Chinese New Year, couplets or dual deity images were written or drawn on paper and displayed on doors for blessings and protection. Emulating the couplet form and meaning, the artwork’s material selection and composition, complemented by a transparent frame, allow viewers to see the same vibrant scene from both sides, resembling the brilliance of dual dragons adorning a door.<\/p>\n
\nIn ancient times, people often offered prayers to the heavens, seeking protection, safety, and peace. They also made offerings to the vast seas, seeking abundant seafood for sustenance. These themes inspired the creation of three artworks: \u201cSeeking Guidance from Heaven – Celestial Dragon\u201d, \u201cYearning for the Sea – Mythical Flood Dragon\u201d, and \u201cNew Year – The Peach Blossom Spring\u201d, symbolizing aspirations for the upcoming year.<\/p>\n
\nThe peony flower symbolizes wealth. Its lines are intertwined to highlight its sense of nobility.<\/p>\n
\nLongevity peach (shoutao) is a symbol of longevity in Chinese tradition. Copper coins and flowers bring blessings of longevity, wealth and peace.<\/p>\n
\nAs the myth goes, the carp can become a dragon as long as it makes a successful leap over the Dragon Gate. The scenery of the dragon diving between the sky and water is a metaphor for making a determined effort to work hard and be brave enough to countercurrent.<\/p>\n
\nExhibition Period:
\nJan 10 – Feb 29, 2024
\nAvailable stores:
\nDFS Hong Kong, Canton Road
\nDFS Macau, City of Dreams
\nDFS Macau, Galaxy (Beauty)
\nDFS Macau, Shoppes at Four Seasons
\nDFS Macau, Studio City
\nDFS Macau, Shoppes at Londoner
\nDFS Macau, MGM (Beauty)
\nDFS Macau, Wynn Palace (Beauty)
\nDFS Macau, MGM Cotai (Beauty)
\nDFS Vietnam, Noi Bai International Airport
\nDFS Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh Airport
\nDFS San Francisco International Airport
\nDFS Los Angeles International Airport
\nDFS Guam
\nDFS Saipan<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.dutyfreehunter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/DFS_LNY24_WHPage_Exhibition-Papercut_HPbanner-desktop_01a.jpg\")