Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the efforts of Zhang Han, a young artisan dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional craft of "Jingpai Mian Su" (Jing-style dough figurines), emphasizing the cultural significance and potential for broader recognition and commercialization of this art form [1][3][16]. Group 1: Artisan Background and Craft - Zhang Han, a 90s-born artisan from Chongqing, has dedicated ten years to establishing "Jingpai Mian Su" in Jingmen, aiming to preserve and pass on this century-old family craft [3][8]. - The shop, located in a historical cultural street, showcases traditional and modern interpretations of dough figurines, attracting numerous visitors and tourists [10][14]. - The craft, known as "Mian Su," involves creating intricate figures from flour and glutinous rice flour, reflecting local cultural heritage [6][14]. Group 2: Cultural Significance and Innovation - Zhang's work incorporates local cultural elements, such as the "Liangshan Diao" opera, to create pieces that resonate with contemporary aesthetics while preserving traditional values [10][13]. - The artisan has innovated the preservation methods of dough figurines, making them more durable and less prone to spoilage, thus enhancing their marketability [15][16]. - Zhang aims to educate younger generations about the craft, fostering a team to explore diverse creative expressions within the art form [16]. Group 3: Commercialization and Future Goals - To ensure the sustainability of the craft, Zhang is developing unique edible products, such as "Chinese-style cakes," to return the art to its original purpose as consumable items [16]. - "Jingpai Mian Su" was recognized as a representative project of intangible cultural heritage in December 2024, reflecting growing public interest and support for traditional crafts [16]. - Zhang's long-term vision includes expanding the reach of "Jingpai Mian Su" beyond Jingmen, aiming for national and international recognition [16].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the success of a Chinese pastry shop opened by a young Chinese expatriate, Ni Mingqian, in Madrid, Spain, showcasing the fusion of traditional Chinese pastry-making with local ingredients and tastes [1][2]. Group 1: Business Overview - Ni Mingqian started her pastry shop after encouragement from friends, having initially made Chinese pastries during her studies in Spain, and has been operating for over five years [1]. - The shop offers a variety of traditional Chinese pastries, including dozens of types of flower pastries and rice cakes, which are crafted with meticulous attention to detail [1][2]. Group 2: Product Innovation - The shop prioritizes the use of local ingredients for most components, while specialty items like osmanthus syrup and rose jam are sourced from China [2]. - Ni Mingqian explores innovative flavor combinations by incorporating local tastes, such as chocolate, matcha cheese, and vanilla custard into traditional Chinese pastries [2]. Group 3: Customer Engagement - The customer base includes both Chinese expatriates and local Spaniards, with the latter showing a preference for chewy textures, making rice cakes particularly popular [2]. - The shop frequently introduces new products every two to three months, aligning with local festivities and catering to the tastes of the Chinese community [2]. Group 4: Cultural Integration - The pastries are featured in various cultural events, including weddings and meetings, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the gatherings [3]. - Ni Mingqian also customizes cakes with traditional Chinese aesthetics, using fondant to create designs inspired by Chinese art and nature [3]. Group 5: Future Plans - The business plans to expand its operations and introduce more new products, aiming to revive traditional pastry-making techniques documented in Chinese literature [3].