An exhibition of dough modeling was held at Shandong Provincial Cultural Centre on May 5, putting on show the talent and creativity of local enthusiasts who recently completed a training course at Shandong University of Arts.

Li Guolin, deputy head of the Shandong Provincial Department of Culture attended the opening ceremony of the exhibition entitled, "traditional handicrafts and modern life".

The exhibition displayed more than 1000 works from over 60 intangible heritage successors, some of whom are keeping their family tradition alive, from different regions around the province.

Visitors admire craft work at the dough modeling exhibition at Shandong Cultural Center on May 5. [Photo/sd.sina.com.cn]

Dough modeling is a traditional Chinese folk art, which can be traced back to the Han Dynasty (202 BC - 220 AD). People combine simple ingredients such as flour and sticky rice to mold various figures and scenes which are then painted in bright colors.

The one-month training program, jointly organized by China's Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Education, won a positive response from the public.

"This program can not only provide a platform to combine the traditional art with modern design, but can also enhance the innovation and inheritance of these intangible treasures,"said Gao Qiguang, vice-dean at the Shandong University of Arts.

A vivid work of dough modeling that presents two men playing with each other. [Photo/sd.sina.com.cn]