Yi Lacquerware Artisan Uses Short Videos to Showcase Traditional Craft

Yi Lacquerware Artisan Uses Short Videos to Showcase Traditional Craft

china.org.cn

Yi Lacquerware Artisan Uses Short Videos to Showcase Traditional Craft

Qumu Shiwu, a representative inheritor of Yi ethnic group's lacquerware craftsmanship in Xichang city, Sichuan Province, uses short video platforms to share the beauty of Yi lacquerware, with one video receiving over 500,000 likes.

English
China
TechnologyChinaArts And CultureIntangible Cultural HeritageTraditional CraftsYi LacquerwareDigital PreservationShort Videos
N/A
Qumu Shiwu
How is Qumu Shiwu using technology to preserve and promote the traditional Yi lacquerware craft, and what is the impact?
Qumu Shiwu, a master Yi lacquerware artisan, uses short videos to showcase her craft, involving over 40 steps and three symbolic colors (red for passion, yellow for harvest, and black for nature). Creating a single bowl takes at least three months, often requiring collaboration among artisans.
What are the key techniques and steps involved in creating Yi lacquerware, and how do they reflect the cultural significance of the craft?
The intricate, multi-step process of Yi lacquerware creation, combining traditional mortise-and-tenon techniques with modern tools, highlights the preservation of cultural heritage through innovative methods. Qumu Shiwu's online success, with one video garnering over 500,000 likes, demonstrates the potential of digital platforms to promote traditional crafts.
What are the potential long-term implications of Qumu Shiwu's online success for the economic viability and cultural preservation of Yi lacquerware?
Qumu Shiwu's use of short-form video expands the reach of Yi lacquerware, potentially boosting economic opportunities for artisans and increasing global awareness of this unique cultural heritage. The fusion of traditional techniques with modern tools ensures the craft's survival and adaptation to changing times.

Cognitive Concepts

2/5

Framing Bias

The narrative focuses primarily on Qumu Shiwu's success in promoting Yi lacquerware through online platforms. This framing, while positive, might inadvertently overshadow the broader challenges and complexities associated with preserving traditional crafts. The emphasis on individual achievement could unintentionally downplay the collaborative nature of the craft, as noted in the description of the process requiring multiple artisans.

3/5

Bias by Omission

The article focuses heavily on Qumu Shiwu's personal experience and the process of Yi lacquerware creation. While it mentions the cultural significance of the colors used, it lacks broader context regarding the history, social impact, or economic aspects of Yi lacquerware. There is no mention of challenges faced by artisans, market dynamics, or efforts to preserve the craft beyond Qumu Shiwu's individual contributions. This omission limits a comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Sustainable Development Goals

Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure Positive
Direct Relevance

Qumu Shiwu is using short video platforms to promote traditional Yi lacquerware, increasing its visibility and market potential. This contributes to the preservation of traditional crafts and potentially stimulates economic growth in the region. The use of modern technology (short video platforms) to promote traditional craftsmanship showcases innovation.