“Collecting objects with the character ‘囍’ is a journey to treasure happiness and joy,” says Wang Yanping. Once a prima ballerina with the National Ballet of China, Wang’s serendipitous encounter with the character ‘囍’ in 1999 sparked a lifelong passion. Since then, she has been acquiring items adorned with this symbol, viewing them as conduits to carry forward her artistic journey.
The character ‘囍’, known as ‘double happiness’, holds a cherished place in Chinese culture, symbolizing joy and prosperity, especially in weddings and celebrations. For Wang, each piece she collects is more than an artifact; it’s a celebration of her heritage and an extension of her expression as an artist.
“Every item tells a story,” she shares. “Through these collections, I continue to dance—not on the stage, but in the hearts of those who appreciate the beauty and meaning behind ‘囍’.” Wang’s transition from the ballet stage to becoming a collector reflects her deep commitment to preserving and sharing Chinese traditions with the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
