May 7, 2025 – Nanfang College, Guangzhou (NCG) became a vibrant bridge between northern and southern China as it hosted an immersive exhibition of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) from Inner Mongolia’s Xilingol League. The event, featuring traditional craftsmanship demonstrations and performances by the renowned Ulan Muqir troupe (a Mongolian cultural performance group), drew nearly 800 attendees, including government delegates, university leaders, faculty, and students.

Opening Ceremony: A Commitment to Cultural Preservation

Professor Zhang Mingyuan, Presidential Advisor and Dean of the School of Liberal Arts, opened the event by highlighting the significance of Mongolian heritage:
"The intangible cultural heritage of Xilingol League embodies the living spirit of Mongolian culture—its artistry, daily practices, and profound connection to nature. Through our partnership with Sunite Left Banner, we aim to transform NCG into a hub for cross-regional cultural exchange."

Meili, Executive Deputy Director of Sunite Left Banner’s Publicity Department and Director of its Culture, Sports, Tourism, Radio and Television Bureau, echoed this vision:
"Bringing the ‘Culture of the Northern Grasslands Frontier’ to the southern mountainous is not merely an exhibition—it is an invitation to dialogue. By experiencing Ulan Muqir performances and traditional crafts, students gain a deeper appreciation for China’s diverse cultural tapestry."

Following the speeches, Zhi Xiucong, Deputy Party Secretary and Vice President of NCG, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Sunite Left Banner. The agreement outlines joint initiatives such as ICH-integrated curricula, faculty-student exchange programs, and hands-on workshops. Fu Ailan, Vice President of NCG, exchanged commemorative gifts symbolizing the fusion of grassland and Lingnan cultures.

Ulan Muqir: A Symphony of Grassland Traditions

The Ulan Muqir troupe captivated the audience with a performance that wove together Mongolia’s most iconic art forms:

• The event began with the Mongolian Bowl Dance, a delicate balance of precision and grace.

• The haunting melodies of the horse-head fiddle evoked galloping herds in Horse Racing and Galloping Horses.

• UNESCO-listed Long-Tune Folk Songs resonated through Wild Golden Colt, painting sonic landscapes of nomadic life.

• The otherworldly harmonics of khoomei (throat singing) in Beyond the Mountain transported listeners to the vastness of the steppe.

Enhanced by immersive stage design, the performance showcased how ancient traditions evolve while retaining their soul—a theme mirrored in the accompanying exhibitions.

Hands-On Heritage: Crafting Connections

The campus buzzed with interactive workshops where students engaged directly with Mongolian masters:

• National ICH Project – Mongolian Embroidery: Intricate floral patterns stitched onto cobalt-blue fabrics.

• Traditional Leather Crafting: Students molded supple tanned hides into miniature horses under artisan guidance.

• Sand Chess Games: A strategic board game once played by nomadic herders.

• Milk Tea Rituals: Demonstrations of the ceremonial preparation of savory Mongolian tea.

• Li Yan, a freshman, shared her experience:"Working with leather felt surreal—the material was so soft, almost like real horsehide. Carving the outline with tiny tools taught me patience, but the final piece made me proud!"

• Deng Li, an inner-Mongolian student counselor, reflected emotionally:"Hearing khoomei here in where I work brought heartfelt joy to my mind. It’s like a piece of home traveled thousands of miles to embrace us."

Liberal Arts in Action: Aesthetic Education Redefined

This event aligns with NCG’s School of Liberal Arts mission to blend "moral, intellectual, physical, artistic, and labor education" through immersive cultural engagement. By exposing students to ICH practices, the school fosters:

• Cultural Comprehension: Understanding the historical and social contexts of traditions.

• Aesthetic Sensitivity: Appreciating the beauty in craftsmanship and performance.

• Artistic Expression: Inspiring creativity through direct interaction with master artisans.

"True education transcends textbooks," remarked Professor Zhang. "When students touch heritage with their hands and hearts, they become custodians of China’s cultural legacy."

Source：https://www.nfu.edu.cn/info/2131/113931.htm