Craftsmen: The Miao People

The Miao (pronounced “meow”) minority reside in the provinces of Guizhou, GuangXi, Yunnan and Hunan in Southwestern China. Much of the Miao area is hilly or mountainous, and is drained by several large rivers. Due to a mild climate and sufficient rainfall, the Miao spend most of their time harvesting crops or taking part in handicrafts. There are approximately 7 million Miao residing in China today, so the Miao people represent several groups with widely varied dialects, customs, and dress. Due to a lack of written language until 1957, much of the tribe’s history and culture is passed down through song and dance.

A very family-oriented group, the Miao’s typically work together on farms and in construction. They are also known for their beautiful batik and wax dyed fabrics, delicate embroidered items, intricately designed silver gift items and painting. The Miao excel at creating rich and colorful clothing. In Guizhou alone, there are over 100 types of traditional costumes.

The Miao people are known for their honesty and loyalty to their culture. This loyalty to their culture and their craft is evident in their workmanship.