Reimagining Traditions: Lacquer’s Modern Odyssey on Fans (04-July-2025, 05-July-2025)

In China, the use of lacquer art to decorate objects has a long history, dating back to the Neolithic period when the technique of using natural lacquer to decorate objects first appeared. Over time, lacquerware gradually matured and became one of the artisan products exported to the West through the Silk Road, passing through Dunhuang.

The emergence of “lacquer fans” has breathed new life into traditional lacquer craftsmanship. By utilizing the “floating lacquer” technique and the insolubility of lacquer in water, artisans blend colours in water with movements to form marbled patterns, which are then transferred to the fan surface. Each piece becomes an irreplicable “singular artifact.” Lacquer fans combine the exquisite techniques of lacquer art with the practical function of fans, serving as both art pieces and vessels for cultural heritage.

This is a Modern Odyssey of Lacquer, marrying innovation with tradition and reimagining classical techniques on paper fan surfaces. Launched during Traditional Culture Month, the workshop invites participants to explore and engage with intangible heritage—lacquer art. Through hands-on creation, attendees witness how utility and artistry converge, “fanning” the flames of a millennia-old cultural elegance.

The workshop is 30 minutes long and includes the following activities:

Introduction of Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage—Chinese Lacquer Art
Demonstration of the “Floating Lacquer” Technique
Create a Lacquer Fan

Check out our Instagram for workshop’s poster.

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