Ever wondered how ancient traditions can be kept alive in today's fast-paced world? Meet Yang Yanfei, a master of jujube wood carving from Yulin City, nestled in northwest China's Shaanxi Province. 🌳✨
Growing up surrounded by jujube trees that have thrived in his homeland for over 3,000 years, Yang developed a deep bond with these legendary plants. From a young age, he felt the stories and spirit each tree held within its grain.
At just 16 years old, Yang picked up his first carving tools, embarking on a journey that would blend heritage with artistry. His unique approach? He lets the natural shape of the wood guide his creations. By observing the wood's form, he imagines what it resembles and carves accordingly, allowing the tree's own character to shine through. 🌟
\"It's like the wood speaks to me,\" Yang says. \"I just help reveal what's already there.\" His pieces not only preserve the natural beauty of the jujube wood but also breathe new life into an age-old craft. 🎋🎭
Yang's work is more than art; it's a bridge between the past and present, connecting young people to their roots while inspiring appreciation for traditional crafts in a modern world. 🌏🕊️
So next time you're scrolling through your feed, remember artists like Yang, who are carving out a place for heritage in today's culture—literally! ✌️🎉
Reference(s):
Traditional craft that bridges heritage and contemporary artistry
cgtn.com
