Chinese Paper Cutting: Opportunities for Revitalisation in Contemporary Design

As a result of globalised development and the rise of capitalism, the craft of traditional Chinese paper cutting is facing marginalisation. The loss of this craft has resulted in a loss of opportunities to share the valuable role of this art form: to bring good wishes to people. The revitalisation of paper cutting as a component of contemporary design offers a strategy to sustain the value and meaning of this craft.

My research explores a potential strategy that supports the transformation of Chinese paper cutting in the contemporary context through its application in design practice. This research investigates the traditional patterns applied to Chinese paper cutting and their implication and symbolic meaning within Chinese folk culture. Through the development of a criteria-led design case study, this research aims to translate these concepts into the formation of new design outcomes applicable to product packaging.

As an element of packaging design, this approach intends to take advantage of the democratisation of and universal access to this medium ensuring wide dissemination to the public.

The purpose of this research is to translate traditional paper cutting into a contemporary design approach that enables the values of this special Chinese craft to prosper.