Zheng Cai Tang, a studio engaged in inheritance and innovation of traditional Suzhou-style silk tapestry technique, was recently declared one of Jiangsu’s ICH (intangible cultural heritage) Creative Spaces by Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism.

Founded in 2001, and relocated in SIP’s Ligongdi Cultural and Creative Block three years ago, Zhen Cai Tang has been exploring innovative ways of carrying forward Kesi (also known as K’o-ssu), a traditional Chinese silk tapestry weaving method of passing through the warp and breaking the weft to make the work look like being carved and engraved.

The studio provides courses for youths to learn Kesi skills. It also collaborates with schools to organize events or offer classes on Kesi.

In the display zone of the studio, the dazzling Kesi works are very impressive. Among them are bags, tea mats and ornaments which were made with traditional weaving techniques to meet today’s consumption trends.

During the 2024 (3rd) Suzhou Jinji Lake China-France Culture and Art Week in October, Zhen Cai Tang showed its Kesi works at the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre (Grape Harvest Festival in Montmartre), attracting lots of people.

“There are often international friends and overseas Chinese coming to us with the hope of experiencing the traditional weaving techniques,” said Chen Wen, head of the studio.

Chen said they also work with various professional organizations to protect and carry forward intangible cultural heritage, citing the case of duplicating and mimicking ancient Kesi works.

Zhen Cai Tang also plans to host public-benefit exhibitions about Kesi in the future.

December 18, 2024