Tradition finds a young voice
From opera to crafts, ICH showcase unites artists, youth and communities through creativity, mentorship and cultural exchange, Yang Feiyue reports in Hotan, Xinjiang.
Since it began five years ago, the Xinjiang Is a Nice Place ICH showcase has brought together 1,450 inheritors and displayed 1,217 ICH programs. It has become an important platform for advancing cultural initiatives in Xinjiang and strengthening a shared sense of national identity.
Li says she was deeply moved when she heard about Elham, who comes from a modest family.
"I can see how hard he works. That spirit is admirable," Li comments on Elham's performance, adding that she is willing to continue mentoring him online once she is back in Beijing.
Li was one of several artists sent to the ICH showcase in Hotan by the Beijing authorities, who set up a permanent exhibition booth at the main venue that aims to enrich local life with the capital city's distinctive culture.
"Our exhibition features 16 intangible cultural heritage items, ranging from imperial traditions to folk art," says Sun Liqing, coordinator of booth operations.
