Each different part of China has its own special forms of traditional art.
These usually try to show the things that are important in life, 
such as love, beauty and family. 
The most common things, from paper to clay to bamboo, are turned into objects of beauty.

According to Chinese history, sky lanterns were first used by Zhuge Kongming.
He sent them out to ask for help when in   trouble. 
 
Today, sky lanterns arc used at festivals and other  celebrations. 
They are made of bamboo and covered with  paper. 
When the lanterns are lit, they slowly rise into the air  like small hot-air balloons for all to see. 
hey are seen as bright  symbols of happiness and good wishes.

Paper cutting has been around for over 1,500 years. 
Paper cutting sounds very easy but it can be difficult to do.

The paper, usually red, is folded before it is cut with scissors.
The most common pictures are flowers, animals, and things about Chinese history. 

During the Spring Festival, they are put on windows, doors and walls as symbols of wishes for good luck and a happy new year.

Chinese clay art is famous because  the clay pieces are so small but they look very real. 
The  pieces are usually cute children or lively characters from  a Chinese fairy tale or historical story. 

The pieces are  carefully shaped by hand from a very special kind of clay and then allowed to air-dry. 
Alter drying, they are fired at a very high heat. 
They are then polished and painted. 
It takes several weeks to complete everything. 
Those small pieces of clay art show the love that all Chinese people have for life and beauty.