Guangdong designer couple promotes ICH in Guizhou

Zhang Yun and Gou Zixin, a designer couple, were attracted by Guizhou's intangible cultural heritage (ICH) immediately after they visited Danzhai county for the first time in 2019.

The two met when they were running clothing studios in South China's Guangdong province. During their visits to Danzhai in 2019, they discovered a common enthusiasm for the integration of traditional ethnic culture with modern design, and subsequently fell in love.

"Danzhai is a magical land full of inspiration for designers," the couple said. Danzhai is not only rich in ICH, but also carefree and hospitable people. "Whether the villagers know you or not, they will treat you to dinner and offer you the best food they have."

In recent years, Danzhai has launched various policies to support the development of ICH. The Danzhai Intangible Cultural Heritage Week held in Danzhai Wanda Village has become an important platform for China's ICH preservation and development, exhibition and transaction of ICH products, and the integrated development of ICH and tourism.

Zhang Yun (L) and Gou Zixin (R) display their designs at an intangible cultural heritage exhibition hall in Danzhai. [Photo/ddcpc website]

Seeing the promising development prospects in Danzhai, the couple decided to move their clothing studio to Kala village and establish an R&D company focusing on ICH.

In the meantime, the couple cooperated with Danzhai's ICH practitioners to build a livestream center that can sell ICH products while providing job opportunities for local craftsmen.

"We're impressed by the dedication of the craftsmen here, and we're willing to dedicate our skills to Kala in order to promote ICH with fashionable design across the country," Zhang said.

The couple believes that by combining ICH elements and fashion elements with modern design, the beauty of Guizhou's ICH can be appreciated by more people.