During the Universiade in Chengdu, the ubiquitous textile element was in full bloom

The 31st World University Summer Games (hereinafter referred to as the “Chengdu Universiade”) is in progress, in addition to the eye-catching events, those ubiquitous textile elements are also shining.

On the evening of July 28, the opening ceremony of the Chengdu Universiade was held. The ancient Shu brocade weaving machine has woven the splendid road and the dream road for the world’s college students from more than 110 countries, which imply colorful and bright future. Shu brocade is one of the four famous brocade in China, with a history of two thousand years. It is made by using the technique of heavy warp and multi-weft, combining geometric pattern organization and decorative pattern. In 2006, Shu brocade weaving technology was included in the first batch of national intangible cultural heritage list. In 2009, Shu brocade weaving technique, as an important part of traditional Chinese silk weaving technique, was included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. Hu Guangjun, director of Chengdu Ancient Shu Brocade Research Institute, said: “Shu brocade embodies the wisdom of the ancients. Today, after development, Shu brocade is not only a representative cultural symbol of Chengdu, but also a symbol of cultural exchanges between China and the West.” In this Universiade, Chengdu once again showed this proud business card to the world.

Chengdu Universiade medal ribbons. The main colors of the front and back are blue and red respectively, integrating hibiscus flowers, sunbird, checkerboard and other elements, reflecting different colors under natural light… On the ribbon, which is about 2.5 centimeters wide and 105 centimeters long, a delicate and complex pattern design is completed and made with Shu brocade technology. In the licensed merchandise store of Chengdu Universiade, the elements of Shu brocade are not only a cultural symbol, but are vividly attached to a popular product. 

In recent years, Chengdu Textile College has built a platform for the inheritance and innovation of Sichuan brocade weaving skills, and established a talent training system for Sichuan brocade weaving skills. This has also played a positive role in promoting the ancient Shu brocade to glow with new glory.