Rediscovering Art During COVID-19

During the three-year COVID-19 pandemic, many people learned new skills and connected online despite isolation. I met Banwen, a calligrapher from Chongqing, through our shared interest in creating tea scoops from bamboo. We bought materials from the same craftsman and learned the intricate process of making bamboo art. Meeting in person after six months of online chats, we shared our experiences and knowledge, deepening our appreciation for bamboo’s cultural significance and artistic value.