"Given the opportunity, I would love to experience the traditional clothing of all 56 ethnic groups in China, exploring their living environments and immersing myself in their local customs and cuisine," said Lile Mahoney.

Hailing from the United States, Mahoney is currently a junior majoring in Chinese Language and Literature at East China Normal University. Her participation in the viral video series, "Foreigners Challenge: Wearing the Traditional Clothing of 56 Ethnic Groups", has captivated millions on social media, showcasing the beauty of ethnic attire and the diversity of Chinese culture.

Having moved to Shanghai with her parents at a young age, Mahoney developed a profound passion for Chinese culture. She has pursued interests in ethnic dance, calligraphy, and martial arts, with a particular fondness for ethnic clothing, which she believes embodies deep cultural significance. To highlight this beauty, she and the "overseafriend" social media team launched "Challenge the Beauty of China: Discover Beautiful China", an online journey that has garnered significant attention.

In her debut video, she donned traditional Mongolian attire, and the striking contrast of her Western features with Eastern aesthetics quickly went viral. Before each cultural exploration, Mahoney researches the geographical and cultural contexts of each ethnic group.

For instance, through the clothing of the She and Yi groups, she discovered how garments reflect geography and climate, with colors and patterns intricately interwoven with cultural narratives.

Additionally, she has launched a video series titled "Experiencing 100 Types of Intangible Cultural Heritage". In Jiaxiang county of East China's Shandong province, she learned to weave Lu brocade on a loom, and in Yizhou in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, she painted goldfish, symbols of wealth and prosperity, on round pastries.

"There are so many enchanting aspects of Chinese culture, like an inexhaustible treasure trove. No matter what you're interested in or wish to explore in-depth, it's endless, which fills me with deep admiration and respect." Mahoney sees Chinese culture as a boundless realm, waiting to be discovered and shared with the world.

Source: news.xinmin.cn