Yan said that there is no specific standard, but since the stamp is for the traditional New Year and for the public to enjoy, they should appear auspicious. "Some designs are artistically outstanding, but we have to give up on them because they don't create a festive atmosphere," he said.
"The designers should have a deep understanding of Chinese culture and demonstrate it in accordance with Chinese people's festive mood and wishes for the New Year," Wu said. He is also the designer for 2011's rabbit stamp and one designer for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games' mascot Fuwa.
Reflecting back on the zodiac stamps, one can easily notice that all of them feature distinct Chinese cultural elements, such as the auspicious cloud, paper-cut and multicolor cloth.
"The design first of all should be easily recognized as Chinese in the style, content and the color," said Wu, "Also, since it is for all Chinese people, they need to meet the demands of people of different ages aesthetically."
But he added that different designers' styles vary in expressing the festive atmosphere of the zodiac animal. Last year, the dragon stamp aroused much controversy due to the fierce image of the dragon. Some thought it was inconsistent with the spirit of Spring Festival.
But to Wu, it is natural. "Unlike the snake, the dragon itself is aggressive and exaggerated," he said.
'Collective children's weddings' held in kindergarten
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