Lu Guangcai – Artisan of Tunkou Drawing in Xishan District, Kunming 

Introduction

Lu Guangcai (陆光才), born in 1947 in Lujiaying Village (陆家营村), Fuhai Township (福海乡), Xishan District (西山区), Kunming (昆明), is a master artisan known for his expertise in Tunkou drawing, a traditional folk art that has been passed down through generations. Influenced by his mother, a folk paper-cutting artist, Lu developed a deep love for folk arts and crafts from a young age.

What is Tunkou Drawing?

Tunkou is a traditional folk art form where a gourd ladle (or other similar objects) is decorated with intricate drawings, usually featuring a tiger head on its convex surface. The tiger head symbolizes protection against evil spirits and is believed to have the power to drive away harmful forces. This decorative practice has long been a part of local customs, especially in the Fuhai area.

Lu Guangcai’s Artistic Journey

Lu Guangcai was exposed to folk art early in life, particularly the practice of Tunkou, which was a common custom in his hometown—hanging these decorated gourds at the entrance of homes for protective purposes. His passion for this art form grew as he matured, and in the 1980s, inspired by the folk art movement, he began producing Tunkou in larger quantities. His works gained significant attention and have been widely collected by various prestigious institutions and private collectors.

Recognition and Artistic Impact

Lu’s Tunkou drawings have been featured in numerous exhibitions and have garnered widespread recognition. His works have been collected by:

  • China Folk Art Museum (中国民间美术博物馆)
  • Yunnan Academy of Painting (云南画院)
  • Yunnan Provincial Mass Art Museum (云南省群众艺术馆)

His works have also been featured in media outlets and have been widely praised for their craftsmanship and cultural significance.

Notable Achievements

  • Hong Kong Exhibition: In 1991, Lu was invited to perform live at an exhibition in Hong Kong, showcasing his Tunkou drawing techniques.
  • Teaching Role: In 1996, Lu was appointed as a demonstration teacher for folk art courses at the Department of Ethnic Arts, Yunnan Nationalities University, where he shared his knowledge with future generations of folk artists.

Legacy

Lu Guangcai is considered a master of Tunkou drawing and has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting this unique form of folk art. His dedication has helped to ensure that this traditional craft continues to thrive, both in Kunming and beyond.

For more details, visit the Chinese version.