Traditional crafts find modern place

"These products showcase my efforts of blending a traditional craft with modern culture to appeal to younger audiences while ensuring that the past and present are represented in my work," Lang says.

The history of dough figurines dates back to the Qin Dynasty when they were used as sacrificial offerings in the form of miniature livestock, Lang says.

"By the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing dynasties, the art form peaked, coinciding with the rise of traditional Chinese opera. During this period, dough figurines became akin to today's collectible figurines, representing beloved characters from operas and folklore," he explains.

Under Lang's guidance, some attendees attempted their own creations.

Black, white and green doughs were carefully kneaded, rolled, and pinched to transform into a charming panda, complete with beady eyes, a bamboo stalk, and a tiny patch of grass.

A visitor surnamed Hu pulled off her very first dough panda under Lang's instructions.

"I've played with modeling clay before, but that was more like industrial products that are light and feel completely different from this (dough figurine). It has a unique texture — it feels like food, very traditional, interesting, and fun," Hu says.

Dough figurines were among several intangible cultural heritage crafts showcased at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, alongside velvet flowers, painted opera masks, shadow puppetry, and woodblock printing. In late February, these art forms were celebrated at the Beijing Intangible Cultural Heritage Center, housed within the ancient courtyard complex.