Exhibition on Shanxi embroidery shows women's perspective

(chinadaily.com.cn)

Updated: 2019-12-20

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A visitor takes photos of an exhibit at the exhibition of folk Shanxi embroidery at Taiyuan Art Museum in Taiyuan, Shanxi province, on Dec 19. [Photo/Xinhua]

An exhibition of folk Shanxi embroidery art which lasts around two months has opened at the Taiyuan Art Museum in Taiyuan, in Shanxi province, showcasing the traditional folk art and mothers' deftness and love. 

Arranged by Zhang Qianqian, the museum's curator, the exhibition focuses on Shanxi embroidery. The overall layout of the exhibition is organized according to the process of women's growth, from needlework enlightenment to supporting a family with embroidery. 

The process of passing down Shanxi embroidery for generations is presented in three sections at the exhibition, with more than 140 pieces of folk embroidery from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) to the Republic of China period (1912-1949) on display. 

The three sections explore the evolution of Shanxi embroidery, the raw materials and its patterns. 

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A piece of Shanxi embroidery goes on display at the exhibition on Dec 19 [Photo/Xinhua]

They also look at the stitch work of the craft, the emotional periods of women reflected in the embroidery, as well as small objects embroidered to enhance the beauty and ornaments embroidered with good wishes.

In terms of the visual designs of the exhibits, the curator has selected some items for their patterns -- so that visitors can compare with other exhibits, carry out detail analysis and gain a full understanding of the artistic styles and usage of folk Shanxi embroidery.

During the exhibition period which lasts until Feb 10 in 2020, Zhao Cuilin and Wu Junmin -- two masters of Shanxi embroidery -- will show their skills in making items on site and teach audiences simple embroidery techniques to promote their in-depth understanding of the art. 

To bring a different sensory experience to visitors, a video production team has been invited to make a theme animation on Shanxi embroidery and the mother love behind the art.