- CHINA & THE WORLD - Culture China - Art & Design - Handicrafts

Beijing handicraft market showcases tradition with modern twist

By Liao Jiaxin
China.org.cn
| May 6, 2025
2025-05-06

A handicraft market featuring more than 150 artisan vendors was held over the Labor Day holiday in Beijing's Chaoyang district, showcasing traditional crafts with modern appeal. 

The "Work with Hands" market, held at Langyuan Station, brought together craftspeople to exchange techniques and display their creations while exploring how to sustain cultural traditions in contemporary China.

The "Work with Hands" handicraft market kicks off in Langyuan Station, Beijing's Chaoyang district, on May 1, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

Organizer Ye Danni noted increasing interest among young people in traditional crafts. "I have noticed more and more young creators entering the handicraft field," she said. "Many are exploring design concepts that reconnect with their hometown heritage, bringing fresh perspectives to these traditions."

This trend was exemplified by Wang Yaolan's innovative work. An inheritor of batik techniques from southwest China's Guizhou province and a fine arts graduate, she introduced original works to the market that blend her family's heritage craft with modern design. Her batik products, including canvas bags and wall hangings, balanced tradition with contemporary aesthetics, functionality and artistry.

Wang Yaolan arranges her batik artworks at the "Work with Hands" handicraft market in Beijing, China, on May 1, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

Wang said her batik workshop provides employment for local women with otherwise limited job opportunities. By preserving this craft, they not only safeguard an intangible cultural heritage but also secure a stable income.

"I hope to grow the batik heritage brand in the future and introduce Guizhou's traditional cultural heritage to a wider audience," Wang said.

The market's ceramic section emerged as another highlight, with Jingdezhen-based artist Achao representing a new wave of Chinese ceramic innovation. Despite transitioning from illustration to ceramics just two years ago, Achao has developed a distinctive style that combines traditional underglaze painting with contemporary design, giving her pieces visual impact.

Ceramic works by Jingdezhen-based artist Achao on display at the "Work with Hands" handicraft market in Beijing, on May 1, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

Achao noted that young creators are reimagining ceramics by emphasizing designs for modern living that balance aesthetics with functionality, rather than focusing solely on technical precision.

Drawing from her experience in international ceramic exchanges, Achao said, "Chinese ceramics are truly exceptional. I hope there are more opportunities to showcase the creativity of China's young artisans to the world, so friends abroad can see the fresh, trendy designs our young creators are making. More exchanges and mutual learning are always beneficial."

People enjoy tea at the "Work with Hands" handicraft market in Beijing, China, on May 1, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

Ye said holding the event added cultural significance to the holiday, helping people appreciate handmade craftsmanship and the relevance of traditional Chinese crafts in contemporary life.

The market, which ran through May 5, featured interactive craft-making experiences that allowed visitors to engage directly with traditional handicrafts.

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