Children learn to make traditional Chinese round fan at the Dunhuang City Library on April 21. [Photo provided to silkroadexpo.gogansu.com]

To mark the World Book Day on April 23, the Dunhuang City Library held a craft-making activity for children, offering them an opportunity to engage with traditional fan painting art.

A teacher from the library introduced the traditional Chinese fan types to the children and invited everyone to make a tuanshan (round fan).

The tuanshan, which is made of bamboo, was popular during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220), and is widely recognized as an artform.  Its shape, resembling a full moon, signifies auspicious union and happiness. It was more than  just a device to beat the scorching summer heat. The tuanshan was a symbol of status and taste in ancient China.

During the hands-on session, the teacher patiently guided the children through the crafting process, explaining each step in detail. Children were free to choose the colors and materials used allowing them to personalize their creations. They added embellishments according to their preferences.

And finally, they presentedtheir masterpieces! Each fan was adorned with beautiful flowers and fresh colors, evoking the feeling of spring.

Teacher from the Dunhuang City Library introduces the traditional Chinese round fan to local children on April 21. [Photo provided to silkroadexpo.gogansu.com]