Intl youth in Ningbo turn World Cup into art

Participants pose for a group photo. [Photo/Tide News]

An international youth salon in Ningbo blended tradition with modern trends, with young people from five continents exploring the art of Chinese seal carving through the universal language of football.

The event brought together participants from Asia, Europe, Africa, the Americas and Oceania, including international students, football enthusiasts, and local cheerleaders involved in regional leagues. Their shared passion for the sport set the stage for a lively cultural exchange.

Inside the studio, visitors were captivated by an array of intricately carved seals, each telling stories rooted in Chinese history. A display wall featuring seals with cultural symbols from around the world drew particular attention, as participants excitedly pointed out emblems from their home countries.

Activities ranged from making ink rubbings of traditional roof tiles with auspicious characters to designing their own seals, with participants actively involved throughout the process.

Inspired by the upcoming World Cup, they were invited to combine national symbols with football imagery. A Moroccan student carved the Mohammed VI Tower, a French participant chose the golden iris flower, while a Haitian student designed a hibiscus motif.

Graham, an Australian professor at Ningbo University of Finance and Economics, made a playful seal showing a kangaroo playing football. He said he had only ever seen seals in books before and never knew how important they were in Chinese culture. He learned that they were once symbols of identity and status, deepening his understanding of Chinese history.

Participants show their seal carving designs. [Photo/Tide News]