In the wake of rapid economic growth, traditional cultures in Wenzhou, especially those rooted in heritage, have often been overshadowed. However, in Yueqing, a small city within Wenzhou, the Ye family continues to preserve a craft that has stood the test of time—boxwood carving. This art form, which has been passed down through six generations, is one of the three renowned woodcarving traditions of Zhejiang Province, alongside Dongyang woodcarving and Qingtian stone carving. In 2006, these crafts were officially recognized as national intangible cultural heritage, yet they still face challenges in the modern market.
Despite the pressures of a commercial economy, where many have turned away from traditional arts to pursue more profitable ventures, the Ye family remains committed to their legacy. Ye Xiaoquan, the sixth-generation inheritor of the Ye Chengrong School of Huangyang Wood Carving, is one of the few who has stayed true to the craft instead of switching to more lucrative industries like real estate or business. “Many people told me to rent out my workshop. The rental income would be much higher than making carvings,†he recalls. But for Ye, abandoning the craft wasn’t an option.
His decision was driven not only by family tradition but also by the influence of his father, Ye Dongcai. Ye Dongcai was a master in his own right, known for his dedication to the art. Even when he was diagnosed with late-stage cancer, he continued working on his pieces. “He used to work all day, even on New Year’s Day,†Ye Xiaoquan remembers. After his father’s passing, Ye felt a deep responsibility to carry on the family legacy.
Inspired by his father’s passion, Ye Xiaoquan sought ways to modernize the craft without losing its essence. He introduced a semi-assembly line system, breaking down the process into specialized tasks. While some traditionalists may argue that this approach dilutes the art, Ye believes it’s essential for survival. “The key is to maintain quality while improving efficiency,†he explains. His factory now employs over 200 workers, producing high-quality boxwood carvings that are exported globally, particularly to Japan.
However, the challenge of attracting young talent remains. When Yueqing Vocational College first launched a boxwood carving program, only a handful of students enrolled. Many parents misunderstood the field, thinking it was just about manual labor. “It’s hard to convince people that this is a serious profession,†Ye says. To address this, he emphasizes the need for better wages and recognition for artisans.
Looking ahead, Ye remains optimistic. “If there are more people like me who keep exploring new ways to sustain this craft, the future of boxwood carving will be bright.†His story reflects the delicate balance between tradition and innovation—a journey that many artisans in Wenzhou are still navigating.
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