Peonies Bloom in Tradition: Heze’s Craft Revival

In Heze City’s Caoxian County, a vibrant tradition is thriving—one kneaded from dough, shaped with paper, and carved into porcelain and wood. Local artisans, known as 'intangible culture inheritors,' are keeping ancient crafts alive by transforming everyday materials into stunning peony sculptures, capturing daily life and folklore in their work.

Imagine dough becoming delicate petals or woodblocks carving stories—these crafts aren’t just art; they’re a love letter to heritage. And the best part? Young locals are flocking to learn from masters, ensuring these skills don’t fade into history. 'We live our traditions by shaping them,' says one inheritor, as peonies—symbolizing prosperity in Chinese culture—bloom anew in their hands.

Heze’s story isn’t just about preserving the past. It’s a reminder that culture evolves when the next generation picks up the tools. From TikTok tutorials to workshops, these artisans are proving tradition can trend.

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How one flower keeps tradition alive in China

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