The design of Olympic uniforms should include elements of
Chinese history, modern creativity and future concepts. An official
textile sponsor of the Beijing Olympic Games thus recently
announced the specifications.
Xinhua News Agency reported that the Hengyuanxiang Group, a
sponsor of the 2008 Olympic Games, as well as the organizer of the
Olympic uniform design competition, is busy selecting choice
designs from all contributors.
The report introduces the fact that, since the Olympic uniform
design competition was launched last December, many individuals and
groups have handed in designs incorporating traditional Chinese
cultural elements, including Han-dynasty costume, the dresses of
the Tang Dynasty, and the Zhongshan suit.
Many forums on the Internet, as well as many scholars, seem to
favor Chinese traditional forms of dress as the official uniform
for the Chinese delegation during the Beijing Olympics.
However, Ma Jilong, director of the Administration Center for
Sports Equipment under the General Administration of Sport, says
that the uniform design should not only feature traditional Chinese
elements but also include modern creative ideas that accord with
the need of a great international event.
He also added that the design must avoid nihilism and
ultranationalism.
The design competition organizer emphasized that the Olympic
uniform design should be easily understood and accepted by both
Chinese and foreigners.
The competition will select 20 choice works from April 25 to
July 25.
(CRI April 29, 2007)