What happens when traditional intangible cultural heritage meets the conservation of endangered species? Recently, Shanghai Roots and Shoots partnered with WPP Media to host the "Fingertip Dreams" art workshop, allowing participants to create cloth pile paintings while contributing to the protection of the critically endangered Eastern Black Crested Gibbon, of which only about 70 individuals remain. This initiative aims to amplify the voices of the rainforest.
Understanding Endangered Species:
From Awareness to ActionIn the workshop's first session, Hanlong Chen, Regional Affairs Manager of Shanghai Roots and Shoots, provided a comprehensive overview of the conservation status of the Eastern Black Crested Gibbon. Through detailed data and case studies, participants gained insight into the survival challenges this species faces and the urgency of conservation efforts.
Experiencing Intangible Heritage:
A Legacy at Our FingertipsMeng Dongqing, Project Manager of the Women Empowerment Initiative in Cultural Industry in Yan'an, introduced the cultural history and artistic value of the intangible heritage of "Cloth Pile Painting" from Yan'an, Shaanxi Province. Participants used environmentally friendly fabrics hand-woven and dyed by local women to create art pieces themed around the Eastern Black Crested Gibbon.
Each participant infused their creativity into the conservation effort. Through careful crafting, they not only preserved a millennia-old technique but also raised awareness of the precarious existence of endangered species in the rainforest through artistic expression.
Every Piece of Creativity Matters：
This unique experience intertwining intangible cultural heritage with endangered species conservation allowed participants to not only create their Cloth Pile Painting but also deepen their understanding and commitment to protecting endangered wildlife. This workshop is a part of WPP Media’s corporate social responsibility initiative, and Shanghai Roots and Shoots are looking forward to continuing to provide platforms for creative contributions to the preservation of biodiversity.