The sixth class of the Shandong intangible cultural heritage classroom, led by Han Guorui, a folk artist specializing in Dongming grain painting, opened on April 8 at the Shandong Provincial Cultural Center in Jinan.

Grain paintings created by Han Guorui, an influential folk artist of Dongming grain painting. [Photo/Wechat account:sdswhg]

For Han, the ordinary, simple grains and seeds are absolutely precious.

"Every single grain is the result of toil. It can save lives during famine caused by conflict," said Han.

"Only in this flourishing age when food is sufficient people can draw with their surplus grain," he added.

"I grew up in a village. I heartily enjoyed the patterns and designs made by colorful grains and seeds as a kid. Gradually I started my own creations."

"The grain art inspires my attitude toward nature and life."

Han Guorui creates a piece of grain art. [Photo/Wechat account:sdswhg]

Dongming grain painting, the unique traditional folk craft with a history of more than 1,700 years, was listed a provincial intangible cultural heritage in 2014 by the Shandong provincial department of culture.

About 30 children took part in the grain painting class, all fascinated by the unique art.

"It's my first time attending the intangible cultural heritage class. I am learning about grain art and I really enjoy the do-it-myself class," said Zhao Zige, a second-grader from a local elementary school.

"It's my third time taking part in the intangible cultural heritage class. Every time I learn something new. The class gives me the opportunity to learn and experience the excellent traditional culture of our country," said a sixth-grader, keen to share her experience.

Organized by the Shandong Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center, the classroom has been open every Saturday since March 4 in a bid to introduce and teach the province's intangible cultural heritage to children.

Every course is taught by someone knowledgeable of national and local intangible cultural heritage, and children aged between 6 and 12 can sign up for the classes.

Han Guorui, a folk artist of Dongming grain painting, explains the methods of the grain art to a child on April 8 at the Shandong Provincial Cultural Center. [Photo/Wechat account:sdswhg]