Mi Me – Representative Inheritor of Dai Brocade Craft Project in Mengla County, Xishuangbanna
Mi Me (咪么), born in 1957 in Mengxing Lower Village (勐醒下寨), Manbian Village Committee (曼边村委会), Menglun Town (勐仑镇), Mengla County (勐腊县), Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州), is a representative inheritor of Dai brocade weaving techniques.
Mastery of the Loom
A Lifelong Textile Journey
Beginning at age 10 with basic tasks, Mi Me progressed to:
Mastering complete weaving processes by adolescence
Producing 40+ patterned bedspreads
Creating diverse traditional items:
- 2-style quilted towels
- 5-pattern hand towels
- 10+ “Dong” ceremonial cloths
- Ornamental hanging bags
Her signature style features:
- Simplified motifs
- Vibrant color palettes
- Exceptional craftsmanship
Transmission Methods
Weaving the Future
Family Legacy
- Trained daughter Yu Liuxiang (玉留香)
- Multi-generational knowledge transfer
Formal Apprenticeship
- Mentored disciple Mi Xiang Zaiye (咪香再也)
- Taught village women advanced techniques
School Programs
- “Intangible Heritage in Schools” participant
- Youth education initiatives
Cultural Diplomacy
- 2019 Japan Cultural Exchange
- Domestic exhibition participation
Contemporary Adaptation
- Modern design integration
- Market-responsive product development
Cultural Significance
Threads That Bind
Mi Me’s contributions ensure:
- Preservation of traditional patterns
- Economic empowerment for weavers
- Cross-generational appeal
- Global recognition of Dai textiles
Through these multifaceted efforts, this master artisan sustains a cultural heritage that continues to flourish in modern Xishuangbanna.
For Chinese version please go to:
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3149.html
