Hello! We are students from Hunan, China, studying how Xiang Embroidery, a 2,000-year-old silk art, is perceived globally. No knowledge needed—just your fresh eyes! (3-5 mins) We never ask for your name or contact.
Part 1: About You 1. Which region are you from? North America South America Europe (including UK) Africa Middle East South & Southeast Asia East Asia (except China) Oceania
2. How interested are you in traditional arts & crafts? 1 = Not at all 2 = Slightly 3 = Moderately 4 = Quite 5 = Very interested, often visit museums
Part 2: First Impressions Images 1–4: Tiger, Flowers & Birds, Landscape
Four classic Xiang embroidery themes—lifelike animals, delicate birds and flowers, and traditional Chinese scenery.
Image 5: Double-sided Embroidery
A double-sided embroidery—two different images on opposite sides of one silk fabric.
3. After viewing the images above, how much do you like Xiang Embroidery? 1 = Not at all 2 = Slightly 3 = Moderately 4 = Quite like 5 = Very much, want to explore more
4. Before today, had you ever seen or heard of Xiang Embroidery? Yes, I knew it by name Yes, seen similar but didn't know name No, first time Not sure
5. What is the biggest loss when viewing Xiang embroidery through a screen? 3D texture is flattened Color less vibrant Can't see fine stitching details Can only see one fixed lighting version No significant loss
6. Which pattern type appeals to you most? Realistic animals (tiger, lion, panda) Flowers & birds Human figures & myths Landscape Abstract & decorative
7. Which color style makes you want to explore further? Bold high-contrast Soft gradient transitions Metallic gold/silver threads Natural muted tones I don't focus on color
Part 3: Value & Communication 8. If a friend gave you a small Xiang embroidery piece, how would you feel? Delighted, cherish as artwork Appreciative, like cultural gifts Neutral Puzzled
9. A medium-sized handmade Xiang embroidery piece takes 3-6 months to complete. Which price range feels most reasonable? It should be a museum piece, not for sale Under $100 $100-$500 $500-$2,000 Over $2,000, a luxury art I have no idea
10. How would you prefer to explore Xiang embroidery further? Short documentary (YouTube/TikTok) Interactive 4K virtual gallery AR app Online article Physical exhibition Not interested
11. What is the biggest obstacle to appreciating this art globally? Don't understand cultural stories Online images can't show real texture Hard to find outside China Style doesn't fit modern decor Too expensive
Part 4: Open Ending 12. In your culture, is there a craft similar to silk embroidery? Yes (Please name: ___) No Not sure 13. Any other thoughts about Chinese embroidery?