One inheritor of the intangible cultural heritage shows her paper-cutting artwork. (PHOTO:VCG)

By Staff Reporters

Paper cutting is one of the most popular decorative Chinese handicrafts. In 2009, Chinese paper cutting was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. According to UNESCO, paper cutting, found throughout China and in various ethnic groups, is a popular art integral to everyday life.

Paper cutting conveys the content and nature of traditional culture with its own particular language. Despite its uses for some rituals in ancient times, paper cutting has evolved to a kind of decoration today.

It is usually made with red paper, the most popular and propitious color in Chinese culture. Apart from adorning walls, windows, doors, pillars and lanterns, they can also be given as gifts. Paper cuttings are popular because of their expression of wishes and hopes. For example, during the Chinese New Year or other important festivals, the paper cutting of the character 'Fu' (blessing in Chinese)  is pasted upside down on the door to express people's wish for the coming of good luck.