An Unforgettable Journey into the Heart of Chinese Costume Culture

Author: Andrew Kaaria Karani Mwongera

Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, China

Hangzhou, China – November, 2023

In the heart of Hangzhou, nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Zhejiang Province, I, an international student from Kenya, embarked on an unforgettable cultural journey. The gateway to this incredible experience was the Nangongxiu Intangible Cultural Heritage Centre, where I, a Master’s student in Applied Statistics at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology (ZUST), had the privilege of delving deep into the enchanting world of traditional Chinese costumes. This unique adventure was made possible through a course titled “Experience China” in ZUST.

The Nangongxiu Intangible Cultural Heritage Centre stands as a unique establishment, an oasis of traditional Chinese costume designs. Its significance was further illuminated as it played a pivotal role in crafting costumes for the 19th Asian Games, an event that adorned Hangzhou with splendor. At the helm of this cultural haven is Wang Shenghong, a master inheritor of traditional theatre costume production skills. Wang’s mission is to illuminate the brilliance of Chinese customs, facilitating a deeper understanding of traditional costume culture among a global audience. His aspiration is that more people, both within and beyond China’s borders, will embrace this rich heritage.

The significance of this center’s work was further exemplified during the 2016 G20 Hangzhou Summit, which brought together the world’s most influential leaders in Hangzhou. As a gesture of warm hospitality, President Xi Jinping gifted these leaders with exquisitely crafted Chinese costumes, bearing the indelible mark of the Nangongxiu Intangible Cultural Heritage Centre.

On November 4, 2023, I embarked on my journey into the heart of Chinese costume culture. The day began with an eye-opening session that enlightened us about the various attires and their profound cultural significance. It was in this setting that I was bestowed with the honor of adorning a costume that was over a century old, resplendent in shades of red and adorned with intricate designs. The attire was further accentuated by a stunning headpiece and a dragon, symbolizing sovereign authority, which I carried with pride.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this experience was the focus on traditional Chinese embroidery culture. It’s a fascinating art that has been practiced for centuries and holds immense cultural significance. I couldn’t help but draw parallels with my own Kenyan culture, which also boasts a rich tradition of embroidery, albeit with distinct styles and motifs. What struck me was the transition from traditional hand embroidery to state-of-the-art artificial intelligence technology in costume production. This technological evolution has allowed the centre to create costumes that are an astounding 96% identical to those painstakingly crafted by hand. Each costume can take up to a year to produce, a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of the artisans.

The highlight of my visit was the opportunity to actively participate in the creation of one of these magnificent attires. Guided by a skilled lady who was fashioning a vibrant yellow dress, I was initiated into the intricate world of Chinese embroidery.

The complexity and precision of the process left me in awe, and I gained a profound appreciation for the expertise and time invested in each piece. It was no easy task, but the sense of accomplishment upon completing a small part of the embroidery was immeasurable.

In contemporary Chinese culture, I observed a heartwarming trend among the younger generation. They are embracing the embroidery culture with enthusiasm, choosing traditional costumes for significant life events like weddings. Notable individuals, such as Chinese actress Angela Yeung Wing, widely known as Angelababy, have played a key role in popularizing this cultural revival. Angelababy’s wedding was a stunning showcase of traditional Chinese costume culture. The event was televised live, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.

My journey into the Nangongxiu Intangible Cultural Heritage Centre was a transformative experience, one that transcended borders and connected me to the rich tapestry of Chinese cultural heritage. It underscored the profound importance of preserving and celebrating our traditions and the role of institutions like this centre in fostering cross- cultural understanding. This unforgettable adventure into the heart of Chinese costume culture is a chapter in my life that I will forever cherish, a testament to the power of culture and the profound impact it can have on one’s life.

原文链接：

https://mountkenyatimes.co.ke/an-unforgettable-journey-into-the-heart-of-chinese-costume-culture/