Ten long films, an equal number of short films and photography works themed on intangible cultural heritage are specially commended out of 500 selected pieces at the 2024 intangible cultural heritage film and photo exhibition in Kaihua county, Quzhou city, Zhejiang province.[Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Ten long films, 10 short films and 10 photography works themed on intangible cultural heritage were specially commended out of 500 selected pieces at the 2024 intangible cultural heritage film and photo exhibition in Kaihua county, Quzhou city, Zhejiang province.

The exhibition was hosted by the Center for Ethnic and Folk Literature and Art Development under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Zhejiang provincial department of culture, radio, film and television, and tourism, and the Quzhou government, and concluded on Friday. It showcased a range of ICH domains, including traditional handicrafts, performing arts and ritual celebrations from 22 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.

The exhibition drew in more than 330,000 visits online, according to the organizers.

Lan Jing, director of the Center for Ethnic and Folk Literature and Art Development, says intangible cultural heritage films and photos play a vital role in recording and disseminating ICH. On one hand, they reflect the personal journeys of the practitioners involved in ICH, and on the other, they objectively present the preservation and development of ICH projects.

The works can transcend the limits of time and space for the public to understand the lineage of these heritage projects, appreciate their spiritual values, and discover their rich meanings and unique charm, Lan says.

Lan also calls on ICH photographers and filmmakers to immerse themselves in the communities where ICH projects are located, paying close attention to the preservation of heritage, the stories of their bearers and communities, and the natural and cultural environments that sustain these projects.

This approach will foster the creation of more high-quality ICH photos and films that can meet the growing spiritual and cultural needs of the people, Lan adds.