Champion of a traditional Jiading craft
Wang Qin is the second-generation inheritor of Xuhang grass weaving, a national-level intangible cultural heritage.
The craft, which originated in Xuhang, a water town in Jiading District, dates back to the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907) and it was used to make tributes for palaces.
Features rich colors it can be used to make items such as bags, slippers, cup mats and fruit trays.
Wang Qin, a second-generation inheritor of Xuhang grass weaving, displays some of the items she makes.
"It is a traditional and representative craft of Jiading," said Wang.
"During my childhood, grass weaving was a sideline occupation in our town," the 47-year-old said. "In spare time from farm work, we wove grass and almost all people at my age is capable of the skill.
"Now few people do it, thus its protection is important," she said.
"We want to take an innovative approach to it," she said. "Xuhang grass weaving is now combined with lacquerware, bamboo weaving, wooden articles and leather goods to make more people love it."
Xuhang grass weaving products are exported overseas.
Xuhang grass weaving can produce a range of useful items.
Xuhang grass weaving features rich colors.
