Li Laoman – Inheritor of Yao Mask Carving in Hekou County, Honghe
Li Laoman is a craftsman specializing in the carving of Yao ethnic masks from Nanki Area, He Kou County, Yunnan Province. Below is a detailed introduction about him:
Personal Background
Li Laoman, male, Yao ethnic, was born in 1945 in Xidong Niupitang Village, Nanki Area, He Kou County. Due to historical reasons, he has moved several times between Vietnam and He Kou. After being ordained at the age of 15, he often followed his brother to participate in Yao religious activities as an apprentice. In 1971, he learned to help others with ordination, rituals, and other activities. In Yao religious activities such as ordination and rituals, there is a segment that uses masks. Li Laoman learned the skill of carving masks in 1987 due to the need for ordination and mastered the technique of mask carving.
Craft Features
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Material and Techniques: Li Laoman excels in various traditional woodcarving techniques, creating intricate and detailed designs. His works often feature religious and cultural motifs that are significant to the Yao people.
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Artistic Style: His mask carvings are known for their unique style and cultural significance, reflecting the profound heritage of the Yao people.
Cultural Contributions
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Skill Transmission: Li Laoman actively participates in the transmission of intangible cultural heritage. Through teaching and demonstrations, he has passed on the skills of making Yao masks to younger generations, ensuring the continuation of these traditional crafts.
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Cultural Promotion: His works and craftsmanship have been showcased in various cultural activities, attracting more attention to Yao culture. Through initiatives like introducing intangible heritage into schools, he has further promoted the spread of Yao culture.
Influence and Honors
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Li Laoman’s skills and contributions have been widely recognized, and he is regarded as one of the key inheritors of Yao culture in Nanki Area.
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His works and activities have not only enriched the local cultural life but have also made a positive contribution to the preservation and development of Yao culture.
