Craft > China > Fengxiang Dyeing - A Profile of Luo Shilin, Inheritor of the Bouyei Ethnic Clothing Tradition


 Sep 30 2024  

Fengxiang Dyeing is a traditional resist dyeing and printing technique. It involves using resin from old liquidambar formosana, mixed with a small amount of butter, which is simmered over low heat and then filtered to create maple oil used as a wax seal. A brush dipped in the melted liquidambar formosana oil mixture is used to paint patterns on handwoven white fabric. The fabric is then dyed with indigo, and after dyeing, the oil is removed by boiling the fabric in hot water, followed by rinsing in clean water, drying, and pressing. In 2008, Fengxiang Dyeing was included in the national list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Luo Shilin, the inheritor of the sixth batch of Bouyei ethnic clothing projects in Guiyang, is a native Bouyei. She has a deep appreciation for the traditional culture of her village and cherishes the traditional craftsmanship passed down by her ancestors. After completing her university studies, she made the resolute decision to return to her village, joining other young people in taking on the mission of rural revitalization.