Chen Guowen – Inheritor of Yi Embroidery Skill in Luquan County, Kunming  

Background and Early Life

Chen Guowen (陈国稳), born in 1958, is a prominent inheritor of the Yi (彝族) embroidery tradition from Mei Jia Village (梅家村) in Sa Yingpan Town (撒营盘镇), Sa Laowu Administrative Area (撒老乌办事处), Luquan County (禄劝县), Kunming (昆明). From a young age, she showed great interest in embroidery and started learning at the age of 15 or 16. Initially, she crafted decorative items and later expanded her skills to include pattern drawing, an area in which she has excelled for decades.

Mastery of Embroidery and Pattern Drawing

Over the years, Chen Guowen has become highly skilled in both embroidery and creating intricate patterns. She is capable of drawing patterns according to customer requirements with remarkable speed and precision. A simple pattern typically takes only a few minutes to complete, while more complex designs may take around 10 to 20 minutes.

Chen’s work primarily features Yi ethnic clothing, bags, pillowcases, waistbands, and other accessories. Her designs often incorporate motifs like flowers, birds, dragons, phoenixes, butterflies, fish, and insects, all of which hold symbolic meanings in Yi culture.

Local Recognition and Market Influence

Chen’s embroidery has gained widespread recognition, not only in Sa Yingpan but also in other towns such as Shuanghua (双化), Jiaoxi (皎西), and Tuanjie (团街). She frequently sells her creations at local markets, and her work has earned a high level of acclaim for its fine quality and cultural significance.

Cultural Significance

Through her dedication to the craft, Chen Guowen has played a vital role in preserving and promoting the traditional embroidery skills of the Yi ethnic group. Her work ensures that this unique art form continues to thrive, blending tradition with contemporary elements and keeping the cultural heritage alive for future generations.

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