Students from Wuxi Vocational College of Science and Technology exhibit their paper-cut works on Jan 4. [Photo/ourjiangsu.com]

Students from Wuxi Vocational College of Science and Technology displayed their 70 paper-cut works on Jan 4 to show the traditional skill learnt at school.

A tradition throughout China and in various ethnic groups, paper-cutting is a popular art integral to everyday lives. Many techniques are used, with the paper being able to be cut or engraved with a chisel, colored or left blank. Paper cuttings are used to decorate windows, beds, rice containers, and flour vats, exhibiting the homeowners' longing for good luck.

In order to promote and inherit the traditional art skills, Wuxi Vocational College of Science and Technology launched a special optional course on paper-cutting and invited local inheritor of the art form Feng Zuansun to give lessons as a practical teacher.

Students and teachers taking part in the paper-cutting class take a group photo. [Photo/ourjiangsu.com]

In 2015, several teachers and students of the school established the Qicheng Paper-cutting Studio and applied to be a provincial-level college student practical training innovation project.

Over 20 paper-cut cultural and creative products have been developed and exhibited at cultural fairs, including mouse pads, silk scarves, cups, environmentally friendly bags, postcards, mirror lights, earrings, seals, and cultural shirts.

According to the college, their students also visited many local communities in Wuxi and created paper-cut works with residents in celebration of the New Year.