Inheritance and innovation of Meishan paper-cut

Abstract

As an intangible cultural heritage of China, Meishan paper-cut art (also referred to as paper-cutting or kirigami) boasts a history spanning over eight centuries. Despite its long-standing history, this unique art form is currently facing umpteen challenges, with its inheritance nearly discontinued. The primary aim of this research was to explore the inheritance and innovation of Meishan paper-cut art. To that end, the researchers developed an innovative research model and corresponding innovative products for the Meishan paper-cut industry.

This research was carried out with the following objectives: 1) To study the difficulties faced in the protection and development of Meishan paper-cut art. 2) To determine the key factors responsible for the losses incurred by the Meishan paper-cut industry. 3) To develop a model that can facilitate the inheritance and innovation of Meishan paper-cut art. 4) To develop innovative Meishan paper-cut products that fulfil market demands. By means of meticulous on-site inspections, exhibitions, expert consultations, inheritor interviews, and seminars, the researchers acquired in-depth insights into the current situation of this unique art form and developed a Meishan paper-cut inheritance and innovation model. This model was subsequently used to create Meishan paper-cut commercial products. The feasibility of this model was evaluated through research meetings. From these inspections, exhibitions, expert consultations, inheritor interviews, and seminars.

The researchers arrived at the following conclusions: 1) The Meishan paper-cut art form and the related industry are currently facing a vast array of challenges, including a decreased number of artisans, a lack of awareness and appreciation among the natives and individuals abroad, economic feasibility, and limited innovation. 2) The key factors leading to the above-mentioned problems are social diversity and the booming popularity of short-form videos. 3) The developed Meishan paper-cut innovation model was implemented by holding on-site seminars, and six sets of Meishan paper-cut commercial products were obtained. After consulting experts, the researchers concluded that the Meishan paper-cut inheritance innovation model has high feasibility. 4) Commercial products developed using the proposed model fulfil market demands. This research is anticipated to contribute to the preservation, protection, and inheritance of Meishan paper-cut traditional culture and will promote the innovative development of Meishan paper-cut inheritance as well as realize the inheritance and dissemination of traditional culture.

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