As the Lunar New Year approaches, folk artists in Zaozhuang, Shandong Province, are putting a slithery spin on tradition! 🎨 Using nothing but dough and decades of skill, they’re crafting vibrant snake sculptures to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Snake—a 2,000-year-old art form that’s still *totally* Instagram-worthy.
🔍 **Why it’s cool**: These dough magicians turn plain lumps into intricate, colorful snakes symbolizing luck and renewal. \"It’s like edible storytelling,\" says local artist Li Wei, whose creations mix ancient symbolism with modern flair. The sculptures, often gifted during Spring Festival, are a sweet nod to China’s rich cultural heritage.
🌾 **The backstory**: Dough sculpting (or *miansu*) dates back to the Han Dynasty, once used in rituals. Today, it’s a viral-worthy craft blending history and hashtags. For young travelers and culture buffs, Zaozhuang’s workshops are now a must-visit spot to catch the festive spirit—and maybe a DIY souvenir!
