Recently, the first stop of the global touring exhibition "Traditional Lion Dance Culture Art Exhibition" opened in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The event sparked interest in Chinese intangible cultural heritage among young people overseas.
Hosted by Malaysia's Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the fair attracted over 400 exhibitors from more than 20 countries. The tour featured 11 traditional lion heads from Foshan, Heshan, Chaoshan and Fujian, including classic pieces and cultural and creative works.
Foshan lion dance is a national-level intangible cultural heritage item, and its lion heads use bamboo strips as frames, mulberry paper for shaping and colourful paintings for decoration.
Malaysian lion dance originates from China. After it took root in Southeast Asia, local craftsmen began using rattan instead of bamboo. The lighter design suits difficult stunts. While the two styles look different, they share the same cultural essence.
Thanks to the warm response, the Foshan team received an invitation from the Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia. A two-month special exhibition on Malaysia-China lion dance culture opened at the Malaysian Chinese Museum on October 8.
China and Malaysia are jointly nominating "lion dance" for the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
Upcoming exhibitions will travel to Singapore and other countries and regions.
Reporter: Lu Haoneng
Photos: Overseas Chinese Federation of Foshan's Chancheng District
