Chinese artist reimagines ancient bamboo craft at Beijing SKP

Editor's Note: The exhibition "Bamboo Shadows Along the Northward Journey," running until Aug. 18 at Beijing SKP Shopping Mall, presents contemporary bamboo-weaving works by artist Qian Lihuai that explore the migration of southern Chinese craft traditions into northern urban spaces.

Qian, who specializes in reviving Chinese intangible cultural heritage, transforms the ancient art of Jiangnan bamboo weaving into stunning sculptural installations.

His works evoke natural forms, such as ripples across water and open skies, and architectural elements like lattice windows, while maintaining a delicate balance between abstraction and structure.

By coiling, curving and interlacing bamboo strips, Qian creates forms that feel both fluid and architectural. Key works include "Ripple," "Lattice Window 2" and "Tribute to Mondrian."

Light and shadow animate the bamboo forms throughout the exhibition, reflecting a cultural journey from south to north, past to present.

The main entrance to "Bamboo Shadows Along the Northward Journey" at Beijing SKP Shopping Mall, July 21, 2025. The exhibition features contemporary bamboo weaving works by artist Qian Lihuai. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]