Showcasing talent

Female artists with physical challenges display skills and craftsmanship, as their contributions bring communities together, Li Yingxue reports in Paris.

Xing Chunyan and her colleagues were offering a demonstration of traditional wooden comb craftsmanship, captivating an audience keen on understanding the artistry behind these delicate pieces at the China Cultural Center in Paris. The combs, adorned with hand-inlaid shells, shimmered under the lights, showcasing a level of craftsmanship that is both practical and beautiful.

Xing, 49, who's physically challenged, carefully demonstrated the intricate process of fitting the individual teeth into the comb — an innovation that allows damaged teeth to be replaced, unlike older designs carved from a single block of wood.

Amid the vibrant backdrop of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, a quiet yet significant cultural exchange took place. On Sept 3, the China Cultural Center in Paris opened an exhibition titled Beautiful Crafts Workshop Blooming in Paris to celebrate the artistry of women with physical challenges.

The three-day event showcases nearly 300 handcrafted pieces from more than 30 "Beautiful Crafts" workshops across China, including Guangdong, Shandong and Hebei provinces. The collection features an array of traditional crafts including silk figurines, cloth tigers, fishskin paintings, wooden combs, carvings and ceramics.