As Xiong Chuanfa, 35, blows a lifelike deer out of molten maltose(麦芽糖) in just minutes, kids stare at him with(astonish), thinking he is a magician.
Xiong has been working on blowing sugar-figures, a Chinese traditional folk art with a history of over 600 years, for more than two(decade). So far, this traditional folk art(list) as a state-level intangible cultural heritage (非物质文化遗产).
Every morning, Xiong prepares the molten syrup(糖浆) and drives to Nanchang(start) his magic show. "Many people,(particular) kids, are attracted by this sugar art." Xiong said proudly.
Xiong explained that blowing sugar figures can be traced back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) andhis family has passed down this cultural heritage for four generations. "My 6-year-old son often blows up a balloon-like sugar figure, just like I used to do as a child," he said. Xiong's wife Wang Li is__ artist of the sugar painting,is a form of traditional Chinese folk art.
In addition to showing their skills at fairs, the couple also stops by colleges to make youngsters get more(involve) in the traditional art and allow them to experience its charm. "We try to combine paper-cutting skills and modern elements modeling on the basis of traditional techniques,(make) them agree with the current trend while achieving a balance between beauty and taste." Xiong said.
