In Shanxi, dough sculptures rise with New Year

Xie Yunxian, a provincial-level inheritor of the Wanrong dough sculpture skills from Wanrong county, Shanxi province (middle), makes a dough sculpture more than 2 meters high titled "Giant Dragon Welcoming Spring". [Photo by Li Kerong for chinadaily.com.cn]

With the Year of the Dragon approaching, folk artist Xie Yunxian has become much busier making dough sculptures.

Xie, a provincial-level inheritor of the Wanrong dough sculpture skills from Wanrong county, Shanxi province, has made a series of dough dragons, including one over 2 meters tall titled "Giant Dragon Welcoming Spring".

The dough sculpture in the southern part of Shanxi has a long history and has become the most important symbol for local residents during festivals and folk activities. It symbolizes auspiciousness and best wishes.

Xie Yunxian, a provincial-level inheritor of the Wanrong dough sculpture skills from Wanrong county, Shanxi province (middle), makes a dough sculpture more than 2 meters high titled "Giant Dragon Welcoming Spring". [Photo by Li Kerong for chinadaily.com.cn]

A dough sculpture made by Xie Yunxian (middle). [Photo by Li Kerong for chinadaily.com.cn]