(Cheng poses for a photo at Nanjing Folk Custom Museum on Aug. 2.)
80-year-old Cheng Shaoyan, inheritor of Nanjing intangible cultural heritage, has been making lianpu, or Chinese opera facial make-up for more than 40 years.
(Cheng draws lianpu in his studio.)
Cheng was born in Shuyang County in northern Jiangsu province. After graduating from National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts in 1960, he began his working life as a wusheng (male martial arts role) at Jiangsu Academy of Peking Opera.
(Cheng’s lianpu artwork is on display at Nanjing Folk Custom Museum.)
However, an accident happened to him changed his career. His foot was badly injured when he tumbled over the stage, which turned him to be a set designer.
(Cheng’s lianpu artwork in the shape of kite.)
But it proves to be a blessing in disguise.
(Cheng’s lianpu artworks in the shape of folding fan.)
Inspired from stage arts and performance, Cheng Shaoyan then focused on Peking Opera lianpu. By combining stage art and handicraft design, he has developed a line of his own while keeping the tradition alive. His craftsmanship has now been listed in the intangible cultural heritage of Jiangsu province.
(Cheng’s lianpu artworks in the shape of Chinese knots.)
“Lianpu is a quintessential sort of expression of Peking Opera. Unfortunately it’s been neglected now as compared with that in the first half of the 20th century. I hope my efforts can take in more concerns,” says Cheng Shaoyun.
(Cheng’s lianpu artworks in the shape of Chinese knots.)
His lianpu artworks are on display at Nanjing Folk Custom Museum until August 20.
(Cheng’s lianpu artwork in the shape of porcelain plate.)
(Source / english.jschina.com.cn; Photo / Wei Xin; Editor / Mengxi Li)
