Beautiful designs a snip for paper cutters

MEDIA RELEASE
7 February 2005

Beautiful designs a snip for paper cutters

Watch as paper is transformed into Chinese landscapes, terrifying dragons and butterflies as light as air when two master paper cutters from Auckland’s sister city Guangzhou, China, demonstrate and sell their art at the sixth annual Lantern Festival in Albert Park from 25 – 27 February.

“Auckland has built a strong relationship with Guangzhou since we became sister cities over 15 years ago,” said Auckland Mayor, Dick Hubbard.

“Through sporting, business, educational and cultural exchanges, we can experience new and different cultures and learn from one another.”

In 2001 Auckland Day was held in Guangzhou to exhibit Auckland’s culture, tourism and trade, and in October 2003 a mayoral delegation from Auckland visited Guangzhou to attend an international trade fair.

“Fostering international relations through events like the Lantern Festival is an essential component to making Auckland one of the world’s most vibrant and dynamic business and cultural centres,” said Mr Hubbard.

This year’s Lantern Festival, organised by the Asia New Zealand Foundation in partnership with Auckland City, welcomes in the Chinese Year of the rooster. It also marks the start of AK05, Auckland’s largest international arts festival.

Auckland City is hosting the two paper cutters from Guangzhou who will demonstrate their craft in a special sister city marquee from 5pm each evening of the festival.

Hand made Chinese paper cuttings have special significance during the Chinese New Year when entrances are decorated with paper cuttings to bring good luck.

Made with either scissors or a knife, the cuttings depict scenes or animals through intricate lines. They are used for decoration, religious ceremonies and as patterns for embroidery or lacquer work.

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