Poster of the Jiaodong Folk Window Paper Cutting Art Exhibition (www.JiaoDong.net)

Jiaodong Folk Window Paper Cutting Art Exhibition opened at the Beecroft Art Gallery in Southend-on-Sea Town on Aug. 19.

Jiaodong window paper cutting, which originated from eastern China’s Shandong province, is art that combines the Chinese philosophy of “images abstracting from observing” and Shandong’s distinct regional features (e.g. ocean culture, farming culture). Traditionally, paper cutting works are used to decorate home windows, doors, lanterns, and walls.

One of the most unique characteristics of Jiaodong window paper cutting is its story-telling function. People usually use several works to illustrate ancient Chinese folk stories, such as “The Cowherd and the Weaving Maid,” “Madam White Snake,” and “Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea.”

According to Cllr Fay Evans, the town’s mayor, British artists, social celebrities, and locals have showed great interest in Jiaodong window paper cutting. The exhibition is a hard-won opportunity to promote Chinese traditional art in the United Kingdom.

The exhibition will last until Friday, Sept. 1.