Weifang walnut carving artist secures national award

Tian Hongbo, a walnut carving artist from Kuiwen district, Weifang city, East China's Shandong province, achieved a significant accolade at the 4th China Arts and Crafts Expo on May 16. His masterpiece, That Era collection, earned him the prestigious Baihe Award, marking the sole recognition from Weifang at the event.

The award-winning collection comprises five walnut carvings. These pieces employ techniques such as circular engravure, relief, hollowed-out methods and inlaying, bringing to life a diverse array of characters and scenes.

Weifang's traditional walnut carving traces its roots back to the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. Tian Hongbo, deeply immersed in this craft, has dedicated himself to exploring carving themes and refining his techniques. He distinguishes his work by innovatively leveraging the unique texture of peach pits and emphasizing layered compositions alongside intricate detailing. His original large-scale scenes have earned widespread acclaim in the industry.

In his commitment to promoting the inheritance and development of walnut carving, Tian has made significant efforts. These include the founding of Weifang's first private walnut carving-themed art museum, the establishment of a training center and participation in activities that bring intangible cultural heritage into schools and communities. In 2022, Tian Hongbo was named the 4th Weifang Folk Art Master, with the city providing three years of financial support and follow-up services. (Edited by Du Xiaping)

The Award-winning walnut carving pieces by Tian Hongbo are on display. [Photo by Li Chenfei for chinadaily.com.cn]

Tian Hongbo creates a walnut carving piece in his studio. [Photo by Li Chenfei for chinadaily.com.cn]