An old woman patiently weaves hundreds of tiny strands of banana fiber together. This Taiwanese artist, Yan Yu-ing, has taken on the interesting challenge of turning banana plants into masterpieces. Yan is a member of the indigenous Kavalan people, and each piece she weaves is completely unique.
Taiwan's culture ministry has recently honored Yan for her amazing art and preservation of her people's traditions. Yan says she's thrilled to have her work recognized, and that even though the work is tiring, she plans on continuing to bring beauty into the world.
Yan is 83 years old and didn't start learning how to weave banana fibers until she was 62. It's a demanding process, involving picking the leaves, separating and dyeing the fibers, and finally weaving it all together in complicated patterns.
Yan also visits schools to teach children to weave banana fibers, and she says she's not willing to let this precious and unique tradition of the Kavalan people die out. This is no small task, as this type of weaving is both physically and mentally draining. Still, Yan's determination will ensure that the people of Taiwan continue to cherish the beautiful array of cultures their country is home to.