Reviving the ancient art of leather carving in Xinjiang
In a small studio tucked away in the city of Urumqi, Xinjiang, Meng Lulu brings ancient traditions to life through her meticulous craftsmanship. [Photo/seexinjiang.com]
In a small studio tucked away in the city of Urumqi, Xinjiang, Meng Lulu brings ancient traditions to life through her meticulous craftsmanship. As an inheritor of the traditional Chinese intangible cultural heritage of leather carving, Meng hammers and carves on tanned leather, creating intricate designs that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Xinjiang.
Meng's journey into the world of leather carving began when she left her job at an advertising company and became a student of renowned leather carving master, Li Siqin. Inspired by ancient texts and beautifully crafted leather artifacts, Meng uncovered the deep historical roots of this ancient craft. With Xinjiang's nomadic lifestyle as her muse, she sought out local artisans and discovered their unique techniques of engraving concave and convex patterns onto leather items.
In a small studio tucked away in the city of Urumqi, Xinjiang, Meng Lulu brings ancient traditions to life through her meticulous craftsmanship. [Photo/seexinjiang.com]
To further educate herself about leather carving, Meng frequently visits museums across the country and consults with experts. Through studying ancient leather carvings found in archaeological excavations, she has developed over a hundred cultural and creative products, including clothing, decorative paintings, jewelry, and coaster sets.
Meng's artistic creations have gained her prominence in the field of leather carving, with 400 apprentices now learning from her expertise. Through her unique blend of traditional techniques and incorporation of Xinjiang's cultural and natural landscapes, Meng aims to showcase the cultural beauty of the region to audiences both locally and internationally.
In a small studio tucked away in the city of Urumqi, Xinjiang, Meng Lulu brings ancient traditions to life through her meticulous craftsmanship. [Photo/seexinjiang.com]