In the heart of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, a local artist is molding more than just clay—he’s shaping memories. For over two decades, clay sculptor Cui Haihai has been capturing the essence of rural life, one sculpture at a time.
Growing up surrounded by the vibrant landscapes of his village, Cui felt a deep connection to his roots. \"I want to recreate rural life from the 1970s and 80s, based on my childhood memories,\" he shares. His works depict heartfelt scenes—from bustling autumn harvests 🌾 to joyous wedding ceremonies 💒—each piece a snapshot of tradition and community.
The magic lies not just in the final piece, but in the process. Cui ferments red glue clay for months, meticulously shapes hollow figures to prevent cracks, and studies real-life expressions to breathe soul into his art. It’s a dance between patience and passion. 🕺🏻🎨
But Cui's mission goes beyond art; it's about cultural preservation. \"What I've been holding on to is meaningful for future generations,\" he says. \"So they know that in our era, someone created these sculptures. It's a valuable memorial for those who come after us.\"
Ever the community man, Cui spends his free time teaching children the basics of clay art. He’s constantly amazed by their creativity. \"It's important to bring this craft into schools,\" he emphasizes. \"Then it's passed down, keeping the craft alive.\" 🎒👩🏻🎨👦🏽
In a world racing towards the future, artists like Cui remind us of the beauty in our past. His hands not only sculpt clay but also mold the legacy of rural China, ensuring it resonates with generations to come. 🌟
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
