Figures from the painting Court Ladies Preparing Silk by a Tang artist, Zhang Xuan, are brought to life through Rugao dough modeling. [Photo/WeChat account: rugaofabu]

The 2024 National Exhibition of Works by Outstanding Young Folk Art Masters is underway in Jiangsu, featuring 250 exquisite works that blend traditional art with modern creativity. The exhibition highlights the enduring spirit of craftsmanship, covering over a dozen categories, including blue calico, thangka, bamboo root carving, embroidery, and paper cutting. 

Rugao dough modeling, an intangible cultural heritage item, is showcased at the interactive experience zone of the exhibition.

Dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), Rugao dough modeling uses local flour and glutinous rice powder to create delicate and elegant figures. Passed down through generations, its artistic value has been significantly elevated.

Led by inheritor Cai Xiaoxia's studio, this craft thrives in Rugao, with Cai's realistic and vivid sculptures capturing the essence of distinct historical styles.