In the bustling Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, a unique art form is capturing global attention. Na Dinghao, a master practitioner of dough sculpture — recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region — is redefining this ancient craft through contemporary creativity. His vibrant figurines, particularly the "Uncle Naan" collection, fuse Uygur cultural motifs with playful modern designs, transforming dough into miniature storytellers of Xinjiang's landscapes and traditions.
Once a niche folk art, dough sculpture has gained unexpected momentum online, with Na's tutorials and time-lapse creation videos amassing millions of views. "Each piece carries our history," Na explains, "but when young people call it 'dough TikTok art,' I know we've bridged generations."
The figurines' popularity as cultural souvenirs reflects Xinjiang's growing tourism appeal, with the Grand Bazaar reporting a 40% year-on-year rise in handicraft sales. Academics highlight how such innovations preserve heritage while creating economic opportunities — a model gaining traction across Asia's creative industries.
As international visitors photograph Na's works against Xinjiang's snow-capped Tianshan ranges, these dough ambassadors silently challenge stereotypes, one intricate fold at a time.
