A special exhibition titled “Masterpieces of Du Jinsheng and the West Lake Silk Umbrella” has opened at the former residence of Du himself, weaving together personal artistry, local craftsmanship, and the universal value of a UNESCO World Heritage site through scholarly curation, authentic artifacts, and hands-on engagement.

More than just a memorial to a renowned figure, Du’s historic home serves as a living vessel of West Lake’s cultural memory. The choice of venue pays tribute to Du Jinsheng’s enduring ethos - artistry with purpose and relentless pursuit of excellence. Visitors can admire the first-generation silk umbrellas from the 1930s, meticulously recreated by master Song Zhiming, alongside a complete set of 20 umbrellas depicting the iconic “Ten Scenes of West Lake.” The exhibition also displays raw materials, semi-finished pieces, and traditional tools used in the craft. In a highlight of the show, Master Song demonstrates the delicate shua-hua (hand-painted dyeing) technique on-site and invites guests to try their hand at it - transforming intangible heritage from something merely seen into something deeply felt.

The exhibition runs through March 31. Looking ahead, the Lingyin Management Office plans a series of cultural programs to further safeguard, study, and share this heritage, ensuring that traditional craftsmanship continues to thrive within the fabric of modern urban life - and that the cultural identity of West Lake remains vibrant for generations to come.