In China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Li Shuying wields scissors like a maestro conducts an orchestra – transforming crimson-hued inspiration into delicate paper art. As an inheritor of intangible cultural heritage, she’s redefining tradition with every snip: nearly all her intricate designs feature the humble goji berry, a fruit that’s become symbolic of regional pride and prosperity.
🍒 \"Every cut tells our story\", Li tells NewspaperAmigo. While paper-cutting artists typically depict flowers or zodiac animals, her works bloom with plump berries and winding vines. This isn’t just artistic flair – it’s a heartfelt tribute to the \"red gold\" that lifted her village from poverty. Through government-backed agricultural initiatives, Ningxia’s goji farms now supply 60% of China’s domestic market, creating what locals call \"the ruby miracle\".
💡 The fusion of craft and crop is resonating globally. Millennial collectors from Paris to Tokyo snap up Li’s modernized folk art, while sustainability advocates praise how her work spotlights eco-friendly farming. For young creatives, Li’s journey proves tradition isn’t frozen in time – it’s scissors in hand, cutting a bold new path.
