When centuries-old Zhangzhou traditions meet youthful ingenuity, sparks fly. Recently, students of the Academy of Arts and Design, Tsinghua University embarked on a cultural odyssey titled “Linzhang Journey”, a 10-day exploration of Zhangzhou, Fujian Province, a city brimming with intangible cultural heritage (ICH) treasures.
From the bustling streets of the ancient city to the timeless earthen Tulou dwellings, the students immersed themselves in Zhangzhou’s living history. They studied intricate puppet head carving techniques, marveled at glove puppetry performances, and delved into the artistry of cotton paintings and woodblock prints. Alongside deepening their appreciation for these crafts, the team harnessed design innovation and digital storytelling to amplify the relevance of these traditions in the modern era.
Students from Academy of Arts & Design, Tsinghua University at Huaiyuan Tulou (Great Harmony House)
Unearthing Cultural Roots: Dialogues with Heritage Guardians
The journey began in Zhangzhou’s historic quarter, where vibrant puppet shows captivated passersby. The students interviewed seventh-generation Xu-style puppet head carving inheritor Xu Qiang and woodblock print artisan Yan Chaojun, among other custodians of local heritage.
“Intangible heritage must actively innovate and integrate modern elements to engage younger generations,” emphasized Xu Qiang, who inherited his craft from his father. For him, puppet carving transcends technical mastery, it embodies cultural pride. “By balancing preservation and reinvention, these traditions can bridge our past and future,” he remarked.
Xu Qiang (first from left), interviewed by research team members
Designing the Future of Tradition: Youth-Driven Innovation
Inspired by their fieldwork, the team compiled a 60,000 words Zhangzhou ICH Archive and authored three research papers proposing strategies for cultural preservation.
Leading the creative charge was Ye Jingyi, a Tsinghua sophomore and Zhangzhou native. Drawing inspiration from local motifs, the city’s emblematic narcissus flower, iconic snacks, and heritage crafts. She spearheaded the design of culturally resonant posters, postcards, and refrigerator magnets.
ICH-Themed Poster Series | Credit: Ye Jingyi, Academy of Arts & Design, Tsinghua University
New Media, New Narratives: Digital Storytelling for Heritage
Beyond academic rigor, the team produced two documentaries. Treasure in the Palm chronicles Zhangzhou’s glove puppetry, juxtaposing its timeless charm with contemporary adaptations, while A Day in Zhangzhou offers a poetic 24-hour vignette of the city’s cultural tapestry.
ICH Documentary: Treasure in the Palm (Zhangzhou Glove Puppetry)
Zhangzhou ICH Documentary: 24 Hours in Zhangzhou
For these students, the expedition transcended academic inquiry, it became a heartfelt dialogue between their generation and the soul of a “hidden gem” hometown.
“Our mission is to keep reimagining tradition, ensuring these cultural treasures shine brighter in the modern world,” Ye Jingyi reflected.
By Gu Xinran
Images courtesy of the "Linzhang Journey" Tsinghua University ICH Research Team
Source: People's Daily App
