Lang Jiaziyu, a third-generation inheritor of the "Lang Beijing Dough Figurine," a cherished national intangible cultural heritage in China, is dedicated to preserving this traditional art form, which is also part of the traditions for celebrating Spring Festival.
Dough figurines, also known as "glutinous rice figurines," are a traditional Chinese art form made from wheat flour and glutinous rice flour as the primary ingredients.
Among the various styles of dough figurines across China, "Lang Beijing Dough Figurine" stands out as a unique folk art, deeply infused with the rich history and traditions of the capital.
In 2008, "Lang Beijing Dough Figurine" was added to the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List, which brought even more attention to this unique art form.
Lang learned the skills of making dough figurines from his father Lang Zhichun.
"I started to learn making dough figurines from my father at about three or four. At first, I thought my father worked so fast. I found it amazing and interesting. I started by watching how he did it, then gradually I wanted to master his skills and create vivid characters by myself," said Lang.
Lang takes pride in the fact that his work reflects China's deep-rooted cultural values. He was especially pleased to see his creations gain international recognition when showcased in France as part of the Spring Festival celebrations, particularly since the festival has been included in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
"Spring Festival has been inscribed into the UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list. It is made up of a collection of intangible cultural heritage skills. Dough figurines are a small part of it. These small heritages coexist and support each other. Through Spring Festival, we can share more of our values and help others understand China better," said Lang.
Through skillful innovation, Lang has taken his art to new heights. He is currently working on a special creation inspired by the 28 constellation sculptures in the Jade Emperor Temple in north China's Shanxi Province.
Lang remains dedicated to preserving this cultural legacy for future generations.
"As representative inheritors of the intangible cultural heritage, our job is to protect these cultural genes and pass them down as our shared culture," said Lang.
Dough figurine art inheritor in Beijing dedicated to preserve traditional art form
The Iranian government is focusing on public concerns and maintaining stable supplies of essential goods amid recent protests, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a televised interview on Sunday.
In the city of Karaj, northwest of the capital Tehran, daily life has largely continued as normal. A video filmed by a local resident on Sunday shows food stores open and grocery shelves fully stocked.
"This is the block near my home, and there are some food stores here. Daily life continues here. Last night we did not see many protests in Karaj. Right now the city is very safe. This is a grocery store close to my home. All the food is available; nothing is in shortage. Here are noodles and different types of beans. Here are dairy products, cheese, and yogurt. I also checked other grocery stores and didn't see any shortages. Everything is available," said local resident Ali Reza.
Iranian officials have described recent disturbances as acts orchestrated by the "enemy," including some carried out by well-trained and armed "terrorists." The incidents have caused casualties among security personnel and civilians, as well as property damage.
The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani has directed authorities to severely punish the "terrorists."
Meanwhile, Iran's police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan said on Sunday that the police had raised alert levels and arrested several leaders of the troublemakers during the operations on Saturday.
President Pezeshkian noted in the interview that the normal demands of the Iranian people are reasonable and justified, but they must realize that triggering riots and carrying out terrorist acts are the enemy's attempts to undermine the country. He urged the public to remain vigilant.
Also on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that Tehran would regard U.S. and Israeli bases and facilities in the Middle East as "legitimate targets" if Washington takes military action against Iran. His remarks followed media reports saying U.S. President Donald Trump is "seriously considering authorizing a strike" against Iran.
Iranian state media reported that at least 109 members of Iran's security forces have been killed in clashes since the protests began 14 days ago. Meanwhile, human rights groups based outside the country said the number of protesters killed has exceeded 200, though the figure could not be independently verified.
The protests initially erupted over a sharp depreciation of the rial and sweeping subsidy reforms. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked agents and sanctions imposed by the United States.
Iranian president says government focusing on ensuring supplies amid protests
