Paper cutting is an art of cutting paper designs. Although the art has evolved throughout the world, paper cutting in China has its unique designs and culture. You must wonder how Chinese people can cut a dragon on paper just as lively as a painting. Many Keats students also showed great interest in learning Chinese paper cutting. Therefore, we have arranged a cultural activity to teach our students this amazing art. On Sunday afternoon, students and teachers arrived on time. We invited one of Keats teachers Ms. Zhao who is knowledgeable about Chinese paper cutting. She also brought her works of art. Ms. Zhao gave a thorough introduction of the art history and its origin. After the appreciation of the teacher’s works, Keats students were amazed at the beauty her works and the skills she has and couldn’t wait to get started.

Ms. Zhao had already prepared a great number of colourful pieces of paper for students to use before the event started. Each student was assigned with a pair of scissors. We started with the very basic Chinese characters which were symmetrical such as 囍. Just within a few minutes, students can already create their own paper cutting. Next, Ms. Zhao would like to increase the difficulty of paper cutting. It turned out the students would need more tools to complete their works. They would have to use a knife and a flat wooden board. This did not intimidate the students who were still very excited about their next work. With the instruction and the help from the teacher, the students finally finished their second work. The students were too proud of themselves that they cannot stop creating more wonderful works.

Both the teacher and the students enjoyed this event and had lots of fun. Dominica who studied at Keats for her second time told us she liked this event a lot and it greatly helped her to understand Chinese culture.

Keats arranges group activity every Sunday. If you are interested in joining us, please contact your advisor to sign up when we post the even on the board.