Yugong Moves the Mountain
Yugong Moves the Mountain
Introduction
Yugong Moves the Mountain is a classic Chinese tale that has inspired generations with its themes of perseverance and determination.
This story is part of a broader collection of Chinese myths that have been reimagined by a group of young picture book creators, adapting ancient techniques to tell stories with a modern twist. The collection, titled Interesting Chinese Mythology, was published by China Citic Press and has received significant acclaim for its originality and fresh perspective.
The Story of Yugong Moves the Mountain
The tale of Yugong Moves the Mountain is a traditional Chinese fable that tells of an old man named Yugong, who, despite his advanced age, is determined to remove two large mountains that block his village. With the help of his family, he begins to move the mountains, one stone at a time. The story symbolizes the value of perseverance and the belief that no task is too great if approached with determination and unity.
Modern Adaptation
In the collection Interesting Chinese Mythology, the story of Yugong Moves the Mountain has been reimagined with a creative twist. Zhou Lan, one of the young illustrators, has depicted Yugong not as a man but as a turtle, symbolizing wisdom and patience. This anthropomorphic portrayal aligns with the collection's innovative approach, where human characters are often transformed into animals to offer new perspectives and appeal to young audiences.
Zhou Lan employed traditional Chinese dyeing and weaving skills to create the visuals for Yugong Moves the Mountain. The use of cloth as a medium for the illustrations adds texture and depth to the artwork, providing a tactile experience for the readers. This technique required meticulous effort and dedication, as it took five months to complete the 20 paintings of cloth art for the book. The choice of using traditional techniques serves to bridge the gap between ancient art forms and contemporary storytelling.