Qiang Embroidery: Cultural Identity, Commoditization and Relocation in the Context of Chinese Ethnic Minority

Abstract

In the aftermath of the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, the Qiang people underwent significant social and cultural changes. This disaster not only altered their living conditions but also had a profound impact on their cultural identity. Qiang embroidery, which serves as a vital repository of Qiang history and culture, also underwent transformation during this period. This article delves into the ways in which the Qiang people expressed their cultural identity through Qiang embroidery following the earthquake-induced migration. The study aims to examine the evolution of Qiang embroidery in relation to cultural identity, commercialization, and resettlement. Key Findings: The research revealed that following the earthquake-induced migration, Qiang embroidery not only preserved its traditional characteristics and skills but also acquired new forms and meanings in the changed social landscape. Qiang embroidery emerged as a crucial means for the Qiang people to reconstruct their homes and reaffirm their cultural identity post-migration. Research Implications: These findings hold significant importance in comprehending the preservation and growth of Qiang culture, as well as the phenomenon of cultural commercialization against the backdrop of globalization. Originality/Value: The traditional culture of the Qiang people became increasingly integrated into the national structured organizational system and assumed a pivotal role within it. In a traditional agricultural society, Qiang embroidery did not confront inheritance challenges. However, amidst cultural transformations, Qiang embroidery assumed a position akin to general folk art and encountered difficulties in its preservation and development.