In the misty mountains of Tongren, Guizhou Province, a centuries-old tradition is being carved into the future. Meet the artisans preserving Nuo masks—vibrant, handcrafted symbols of the Tujia ethnic group’s sacred Nuo opera rituals. These masks aren’t just art; they’re living bridges between ancestors and modern communities.
Creating a single Nuo mask involves six stages and over 20 painstaking steps, from selecting wood to polishing, carving, and painting. Each groove tells a story, each color embodies a spirit. Think of them as the OG superhero masks—except these have guarded cultural identity for over 2,000 years!
Why does this matter? As globalization sweeps through China’s countryside, younger generations are stepping up to learn this craft. 'It’s like holding history in your hands,' says local apprentice Li Wei, 24. 'We’re not just making masks—we’re keeping our roots alive.'
For travelers and culture buffs, Guizhou’s Nuo traditions offer a rare glimpse into China’s ethnic tapestry. And for the Tujia people? Every mask danced in ritual is a victory against time.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com