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)