[Video provided by Taizhou International Communication Center]

Elisa Andrade from Colombia embarked on a journey to uncover the intricate charm of Tai Silk, or "taixiu".

Accompanied by Lin Xia, a nationally recognized arts and crafts master and taixiu inheritor, Elisa visited the Tai Silk Institute. There, she explored the craft's history and evolution, admired exquisite embroidered works, and experienced the art firsthand. She also tried on garments featuring taixiu designs, observing how this ancient craft is integrated into modern fashion.

Before leaving, Elisa chose a silk scarf embroidered with motifs of Tiantai Mountain's Rhododendron fortunei as a gift for her mother — a gesture symbolizing beauty, harmony, and love through the lens of Eastern aesthetics.

Taixiu reflects a unique blend of Chinese and Western influences. During the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), Taizhou's folk embroidery absorbed Western engraving and drawn-thread techniques, giving rise to the distinctive "drawing-carving" style. This craftsmanship embodies both cultural heritage and creative innovation, capturing the elegance and precision of handmade artistry.