Embroidery(刺绣)is an important art form in Chinese culture.People often embroider handkerchiefs,bed covers,tablecloths and dresses.Shu embroidery is one of the most famous embroidery styles in China.It's known for its strong expression and smooth needlework.
The characteristics are greatly influenced by geographical environment,customs and cultures.Called the“Land of Abundance”,Sichuan province is rich in grain production.The people of this area also enjoy a slow lifestyle.So when embroidering,they are usually patient and willing to spend time pursuing the form’s complexity and elegance.This could also be a reason why Shu embroidery was listed as a national-level intangible cultural heritage in 2006.
Making beautiful Shu embroidery products is never easy.
It requires superb workmanship.Meng Dezhi,59,was born to a family of embroiderers.She was one of the most talented employees at the Chengdu Shu embroidery factory.Even so,the long and repetitive nature of the process often challenges her.And in winter,when her hands and feet are freezing,things become more difficult.But her love for the work has encouraged Meng to continue.Even for an experienced master like Meng,finishing a piece requires several days or even a few months.
“These experiences may sometimes discourage me,but the love for Shu embroidery always gives me motivation to continue,”said Meng.
Meng has also popularized the culture of Shu embroidery when the tradition was at risk of declining.
Many cheap products are made by modern machines.In 2005,the factory Meng worked in was forced to close.To make a living and pass along the traditional technique,Meng rented a small space of 10 square meters to teach Shu embroidery skills to the kids and young people.
“In the early days,I set up the company just for survival,but now I really feel that I have the responsibility to pass on Shu embroidery skills to young people.”“It is like sowing a seed—who knows which of them will become an inheritor(继承人)or guardian of our culture in the future?”she told China Daily.
【小题1】What is special about Shu embroidery?| A．It mainly features images of animals. |
| B．It is complex and delicate in workmanship. |
| C．It affects local lifestyles in Sichuan province. |
| D．It’s developed from traditional Chinese paintings. |
| A．The nature of Shu embroidery. |
| B．The passion for Shu embroidery. |
| C．The influence of her family tradition. |
| D．The profits from Shu embroidery products. |
| A．Setting up a company for a living. |
| B．Renting a 10-square-meter space. |
| C．Making cheap products with modern machines. |
| D．Teaching Shu embroidery skills to the young generation. |
| A．Art Made with Modern Machines | B．The History of Shu Embroidery |
| C．Passing on Needlepoint Perfection | D．A Talented Shu Embroidery Employee |
