Crafting dreams with 3 million followers in Weicheng

In the evolving landscape of craftsmanship, 26-year-old Yu Kaiwen from Pianliangzi village of Weicheng district, stands out with over 3 million followers.

Despite a decline in traditional handiwork, Yu transforms nondescript wood into whimsical creations, turning his workshop into a fairy-tale realm.

Yu's indulges in making handiwork in workshop. [Photo by Hao Peiru for chinadaily.com.cn]

Though he grew up among skilled woodworkers, including his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Yu has defied tradition. 

After graduating from college in 2021, he started his own career, fusing youthful innovation with traditional woodcarving. Using wood as his canvas and a knife as his brush, Yu crafts charming and meaningful cultural products.

After his grandmother's inevitable leaving, he crafted an artwork called Never Apart. Shared on social platforms, it resonated not only with children but also captivated a young audience. Overnight, the piece sold over 3,000 units, becoming a sensation.

Yu's handiwork put neatly on the desk. [Photo by Hao Peiru for chinadaily.com.cn]

Yu's workshop is now a social media hub, boasting 3 million fans and 2 million yuan ($281,686) in annual sales. Looking ahead, he aims to fortify his brand, enhance copyright protection, produce more original works, and venture into international markets, sharing China's rich traditional culture with the world. Yu, with his nimble hands and innovative spirit, hopes to be not just an artisan but a cultural ambassador in the future. (Edited by Hu Haoshu)