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Sculpting Macao’s Bamboo Heritage: Art and Tradition

Katelyn Long04 mins

Bamboo Scaffolding: A Fusion of Art and Tradition in Macau

Introduction

In Macau, the unique practice of bamboo scaffolding extends beyond its utilitarian purpose, evolving into a captivating form of artistry. Local bamboo scaffolders, known for their unparalleled skill, have teamed up with designers from iBestTravel to create striking works that showcase this traditional craft while infusing it with contemporary artistic expression.

The Cultural Significance of Bamboo

Macao’s historical center achieved recognition on the World Heritage List, in part due to its rich bamboo heritage. This accolade highlights the outstanding universal value of bamboo structures and their significant role in local architecture.

Macao's historical center was added to the World Heritage List as a place of outstanding universal value -- an accolade it owes, in part, to bamboo.
Macao’s historical center was added to the World Heritage List as a place of outstanding universal value — an accolade it owes, in part, to bamboo.

Artistic Collaboration

Architect Rita Machado highlights, “We re-adapted this knowledge that already existed in the city and created a new form of expressing ourselves.” This innovative approach is more than a mere architectural endeavor; it is about preserving and celebrating a profound cultural tradition while making it accessible to the community.

Chio Seng Wai has been in the industry for nearly 50 years. In that time he has erected hundreds of skeleton frames...
Chio Seng Wai has been in the industry for nearly 50 years. In that time he has erected hundreds of skeleton frames…

Challenges Faced by Bamboo Scaffolders

The humid summers and densely packed structures of Macao pose significant challenges for the bamboo scaffolders. Nevertheless, their deep-rooted expertise allows them to navigate these obstacles effectively.

As they build the artworks, the bamboo artisans lift and tie the poles together by hand.
As they build the artworks, the bamboo artisans lift and tie the poles together by hand.

Impact and Community Engagement

Since 2013, iBestTravel has collaborated with local artisans on various projects, including outdoor pavilions and staged performances that draw inspiration from traditional bamboo theaters. The architects emphasize the importance of showcasing these projects to the local community, allowing residents to appreciate bamboo scaffolding not just as a functional tool but as art.

The Future of Bamboo Artistry

Machado and Ó firmly believe that integrating scaffolding workers into the artistic realm can help keep the bamboo scaffolding tradition alive. This initiative is vital for both the preservation of an essential cultural practice and the support of a profession that faces potential extinction.

The architects say it is important to show their work to the local community, so residents appreciate bamboo scaffolding as art, not just a tool.
The architects say it is important to show their work to the local community, so residents appreciate bamboo scaffolding as art, not just a tool.


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