On June 12, Baisha Li Autonomous County hosted a traditional Li textile spinning, dyeing, weaving, and embroidery competition for local primary and secondary school students.

Now in its 8th year, this year’s competition attracted a total of 238 students, more than any of the previous events. "Thanks to the introduction of our intangible cultural heritage into classes in local schools, students have developed a stronger interest in the Li culture after learning more about traditional Li textile techniques," said Fu Jizhen, a judge for the competition and a traditional Li textile technique artisan.

During the competition, contestants were tested on their spinning, dyeing, weaving, and embroidery techniques. Their skills will make a great contribution to passing on traditional Li textile techniques to the next generation. The Hainan traditional Li textile techniques were listed as an Intangible Culture Heritage item in need of urgent protection by UNESCO in 2009.

(Photo courtesy of Baisha Integrated Media Center)