OIACI0003 - Chinese Paper-cutting

Course Description

The art of Chinese paper-cutting is a traditional part of Chinese culture and one of the beautiful treasures of Chinese art. It dates back to the Northern and Southern Dynasties (420-589). Originally associated with worshipping ancestors and gods, today, paper cut outs are used to pass good fortune and wishes onto others. The patterns are often representations of events associated with festivals, bumper harvest of crops, stories from folk opera and fairy tales, children or animals, and others. 

In this course, students will learn basic folding and cutting skills of Chinese paper-cutting and the meaning behind traditional patterns. They will create traditional and contemporary paper-cuttings. All materials will be provided.

Chinese Paper-cutting should be of interest to students currently studying Chinese and students interested in Chinese art and culture. It should also be of interest to appreciators of art, regardless of cultural or linguistic background. No prior knowledge of the Chinese language is necessary.

Questions, contact confucius@temple.edu