In the ancient town of Dali, Yunnan Province, on the Chinese mainland, a group of elderly women from the Bai ethnic group are reshaping folk art—hoes in one hand, paintbrushes in the other. They gather vibrant soils from nearby hills, grind them into pigments, and bring each hue to life on canvas.
Inspired by traditional Bai embroidery, these self-taught artists translate intricate threadwork into bold brushstrokes. Illiterate yet eloquent in color, they paint their names with a flourish, imprinting personal stories and the collective memory of life by Erhai Lake. The result? Art that smells of earth, feels like home, and radiates the warmth of handmade craft. 🌾🎨
Their work isn’t just pretty pictures—it’s a living bridge between past and present. As tourists snap photos and locals frame their pieces, these women are proving that creativity has no age limit. Their art invites us to slow down, soak in local traditions, and celebrate the simple beauty that surrounds us. Next time you scroll your feed, let these painted dreams remind you of the stories hidden in every brushstroke. ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
