Lin Meiying presents her Year of the Horse paper cuts.

Pingtan Island, a vibrant coastal destination in Fujian Province known for its cross-Straits cultural ties and rich folk art heritage, welcomes the Year of the Horse with exquisite paper-cut art from Lin Meiying, a master and inheritor of intangible cultural heritage.

Year of the Horse cultural creative calendar

At Lin's Paper-Cut Art Gallery, red paper and carving knives dance as the 73-year-old artist creates dynamic horse-themed works that blend traditional motifs with modern aesthetics. Her creations include classic zodiac horse paper-cuts—such as a galloping horse adorned with peonies symbolizing "prosperity and immediate success" and another stepping on auspicious clouds with copper coin patterns and "blessing" characters representing "good fortune arrives soon"—and innovative pieces like Dragon Horse Spirit, a recently finished work depicting a soaring dragon and a leaping horse. "Dragon Horse Spirit embodies that uplifting spirit of perseverance," Lin shares. "It's both a wish for everyone's vitality and a hope for Pingtan's continued progress."

Twelve zodiac paper cuts

Lin has dedicated years to innovating the age-old craft. She has developed practical cultural and creative products like a 2026 Year of the Horse calendar, which frames her Immediate Success paper-cut alongside daily dates. "I want paper-cutting to be more than wall decor—it should be part of daily life," she explains. Visitors like Chen Huan praise the calendar: "It's cleverly designed, balancing tradition and utility. Having Immediate Success on my desk keeps me motivated."

Lin Meiying Paper-Cut Art Gallery

Beyond traditional works, Lin explores the "paper-cutting +" model, creating derivatives like shirts and eco-friendly bags printed with her horse designs. She also teaches paper-cutting in nursing homes, primary schools and communities, having mentored over 20 disciples. Despite eye strain from long hours of meticulous work, she remains passionate: "There's a unique joy in watching a plain piece of red paper come to life in my hands. Nothing else can replace it."