VOA慢速英語:移民希望振興中國古代藝術(shù)

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Welcome to American Mosaic from VOA LearningEnglish. I’m June Simms.

The Chinese art of paper cutting has a long history. The United NationsEducational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has recognized the art,called Jianzhi, on its Intangible Cultural Heritage List. But, Jianzhi is at risk ofdisappearing. Caty Weaver tells us about a Chinese immigrant to the U.S.who hopes to bring the art back to life.

Voyo Woo loves paper cutting.

“It is called a dragon of boat racing.”

And she works hard to celebrate the ancient art form.

“The first, earliest paper cutting was found in China 1500 years ago.”

On a recent Saturday, Ms. Woo held a paper cutting show at a shoppingcenter near Washington. She demonstrated the art for hours to crowds at thecenter.

“I really like it. I get so much fun and peace doing it. So, I am just kind ofhoping that more people will learn about this art that is kind of dying and enjoyit like I do.”

Voyo Woo began to study the art of Jianzhi as a 14-year-old in her hometownin southeastern China. She says all the students at school had to learn the art. But she says she discovered a special love for it. So, her teacher gave herextra training after class.

“It was actually a mandatory art class for everybody. But I just found a specialpassion for it. So my teacher, she was willing to give me extra tutoring afterclass to train me in paper cutting.”

Paper cutting artist Voyo Woo at work.

Later, she won second prize in a national painting and calligraphy competition.

“Paper is the easiest material that you can find. You can just turn it intobeautiful, intricate art. I think it is like magic to me.”

Ms. Woo came to the U.S. after she finished college in 2008. Soon after, shebecame involved in an event to support and expand understanding of Chinesepaper cutting. She has been invited to demonstrate the art at a wide collectionof events. She also has shown her skill at famed museums like theSmithsonian Institution’s Freer and Sackler art galleries in Washington.

“I saw so many people coming to me and asking me. They were amazed. Ithink it is important to promote the art form to American people or anyone whois interested. Maybe it will lead to another thriving of this art form back inChina.”

Ms. Woo says paper cutting represents Chinese cultural values, history andstories of people’s lives. She uses the art as a tool to present Chinese cultureto people who know little about it.

Ms. Woo placed examples of her art around her as she demonstrated papercutting at the shopping center. Some shoppers, like Ann Russ, took part in aworkshop. Ms. Russ was struck by the finely detailed nature of the work. Shesaid it put her at ease.

“I like to know about Chinese art, specifically because it is very delicate. And Ilike the focus that it requires because it takes me out of everything. And wehave to concentrate on something very closely. It is almost relaxing to put thatmuch effort into it.”

Voyo Woo says Chinese art is for all people.

“It is amazing how Chinese art can resonate, can echo with people from othercultural backgrounds.”

I’m Caty Weaver.