Over 20 paper-cutting artists from China recently traveled to Europe to present more than 40 artworks. Among them, Huangyan paper-cutting from Taizhou, Zhejiang province, drew interest from both French and Chinese audiences, representing Chinese intangible heritage.

Before the exhibitions, artists took part in a creative market at a park along the River Seine, where their handmade paper-cutting products sold well. Later, the group held a Chinese paper-cutting invitational exhibition at the NEOMA Confucius Institute for Business Paris Center, featuring both traditional and modern-themed works.

Shen Lei, the delegation's leader, spoke about the development of Chinese paper-cutting, while artists shared the inspirations behind their work. Huangyan paper-cutting artist Shen Yang presented his piece Yun Ju Mang, which depicts life in his hometown known for citrus farming.

The paper-cutting piece Yun Ju Mang created by Shen Yang. [Photo/taizhou.com.cn]

A notable artwork — a silhouette depicting two white-clad warriors in a nighttime encounter — captivated foreign visitors. It depicted a scene from the Peking Opera Sanchakou (The Crossroads Inn), which vividly conveyed Chinese theatrical style and traditional aesthetics.

The paper-cutting piece Sanchakou created by Shen Lei. [Photo/taizhou.com.cn]

In Switzerland, the delegation visited a paper-cutting museum and exchanged ideas with local artists. With Professor Zhang Lili translating, Shen offered a detailed presentation on the regional diversity of Chinese paper-cutting traditions.

A photo of a Swiss paper-cutting. [Photo/taizhou.com.cn]

The European tour not only created artistic friendships but also served as a cultural bridge between China and Europe. From Paris to Switzerland, Chinese paper-cutting highlighted its enduring appeal and contributed to promoting traditional Chinese culture globally.