Global faculty and students from the Oriental Ecological Wisdom and Art Innovation Workshop of Zhejiang Normal University's School of Design and Innovation arrived in Sanren She ethnic township in Lishui's Suichang county, Zhejiang province, on July 14, for a hands-on research tour.

After a brief opening ceremony, the overseas participants were paired with local host families and exchanged gifts, making them feel at home.

In the afternoon, the group visited a black pottery workshop led by fifth-generation inheritor Qiu Yongxiang. He explained the history, materials, and traditional forms of Suichang pottery, as well as his efforts to modernize it through creative teacups and mugs.

International students experience black pottery making. [Photo provided by Zhejiang Normal University]

The international students then tried their hands at kneading, centering, shaping, and trimming the clay — a process that demands patience, focus, and coordination.

As night fell, the "Moon & Meet" She-themed night market opened with food, music, and craft stalls. The team set up hands-on booths for mother-of-pearl inlay and paper-cutting, drawing local villagers and children.

International students sing at the "Moon & Meet" She-themed night market. [Photo provided by Zhejiang Normal University]

International students Laura, Will, and Chelan also joined local performers on stage, singing in different languages to enthusiastic applause.

Moving forward, the team will continue their research and creative projects, exploring new ways to revitalize traditional culture through rural art initiatives.