By: John Wattson

As the vibrant Happy Chinese New Year Tour continues its journey across the United States, it brings with it a kaleidoscope of traditional crafts from Zhejiang Province, offering a unique and immersive experience to diverse audiences. In an exclusive interview with the organizers, including Ruan Jing, Director of Zhejiang Provincial Cultural Center, and renowned heritage bearers such as Ji Tianyuan and Jin Xin, the intricate details behind the tour’s conception, its collaborations with cultural institutions, and the profound impact on communities were unveiled.

Selection of Artisans and Cultural Representation

The artisans chosen for the tour were carefully selected based on their expertise in crafts deeply rooted in Chinese New Year traditions. Director Ruan Jing emphasized the inclusion of a younger generation of inheritors to foster a cultural exchange that goes beyond showcasing ancient art. This deliberate choice aims to provide Americans with a more nuanced understanding of contemporary Chinese life and the dedication to preserving and evolving traditional cultural practices.

Partnerships with Cultural Institutions

The collaboration with prestigious cultural institutions across the U.S. stemmed from the recognition of existing Lunar New Year celebrations organized by these institutions. The Zhejiang Provincial Cultural Center, founded in 1955, played a pivotal role in executing the event. The collaboration seeks to leverage high-quality platforms to establish relationships with American public cultural institutions, fostering meaningful exchanges and cooperation.

Significance of Showcased Crafts in Zhejiang Culture

The selection of crafts for the tour was two-fold. First, crafts closely associated with Chinese New Year customs, such as Sugar Painting, Rice Dough Sculpture, Woodblock Printing, and writing Spring Festival couplets, were chosen. Second, crafts like silk, porcelain, and tea were selected based on Zhejiang’s unique cultural characteristics. The inclusion of Southern Song Official Kilns, representing the pinnacle of Song Dynasty ceramics, highlights a period considered the zenith of Chinese aesthetics.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation in Performances

The integration of modern elements, such as cutting-edge puppetry techniques in the Taishun Puppet Show, is a testament to Zhejiang’s rich artistic heritage. Director Ruan Jing highlighted the province’s commitment to excellence in traditional craftsmanship and the continual evolution of puppetry. The performances are tailored to different age groups and communities, ensuring a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that resonates with diverse audiences.

Engaging the Younger Generation

The organizers expressed that traditional Chinese culture inherently resonates well with the youth, making engagement a seamless process. Interactive activities like Woodblock Printing not only bring Chinese New Year traditions to life but also provide a gateway for young participants to delve into the history, heritage, and stories behind the ancient craft, fostering curiosity and appreciation.

Impact on Different Communities

The response from diverse communities has been overwhelmingly positive. Whether in New York, New Jersey, or Philadelphia, attendees of all ages have shown a keen interest in the showcased crafts. Sugar Painting and Rice Dough Sculpture, in particular, garnered significant attention, with attendees willing to wait in long lines for a glimpse and hands-on experience.

Contribution to Cross-Cultural Understanding

With the ethos of “Happy Chinese New Year, Harmonious World,” the event aligns with the United Nations’ resolution designating the Spring Festival as a UN holiday. The cultural exchange facilitated by the Happy Chinese New Year Tour aims to increase mutual understanding through more extensive interactions, fostering a shared appreciation for cultural diversity.

Capturing the Festive Spirit

As the Spring Festival holds profound cultural significance worldwide, the tour endeavors to capture and convey the festive spirit embedded in Chinese New Year celebrations. With the recent UN resolution and the global acknowledgment of the holiday, the tour serves as a bridge, promoting cultural harmony and shared values.

Future Plans and Expansion

Director Ruan Jing expressed satisfaction with the positive reception of the current tour, revealing invitations from various countries and regions. The organizers plan to incorporate new elements into future editions, anticipating even more cultural exchanges and leaving lasting memories during the joyous moments of the Spring Festival.

Published By: Martin De Juan