Temple Fairs provided a full display of traditional handicrafts this holiday season, but for those in the capital who missed out, there's another chance to appreciate these marvellous works.

In Beijing's Art Treasures Museum near the Temple of Heaven, the temple fair frenzy is extended. Kites, papercuts, hairy monkey cicadas, and snuff bottles, just to name a few, are displayed by the trade's insiders. And inheritors of some intangible heritages are demonstrating the time honored skills.

Ironing pictures on gourds doubles the auspiciousness that the plant conveys. Bringing a gourd home is believed to bring happiness and good fortune to the family. With some smart design, a deformed gourd is easily turned into a piece of art.

A gourd maker said, "A gourd with flaws can be made into a cherished art piece with an ingenious design."

The temple fair in Beijing's Art Treasures Museum will last until the 15th day of the first lunar month, which this year falls on February 6.

Chen Siguang, director of Beijing's Art Treasures Museum, said, "By holding this indoor temple fair, we want to extend the festive atmosphere. We have arranged some activities where folks can learn crafts from experts."

This dough figurine maker is teaching a child how to create a simple figure. In several minutes, different colored dough sticks are rubbed into a lifelike rooster.

A dough figurine maker said, "By doing it himself, the boy moves his hands as well as his mind."

Being this year's zodiac animal, dragons can be found everywhere. One painter is drawing out a dragon with ink while another artist is portraying the animal on an egg shell. So if you are a fan of traditional Chinese culture, drop by the Beijing Art Treasures Museum near the north gate of the Temple of Heaven.

(CNTV.cn February 1, 2012)