Preserving gypsum carving

Gypsum carving artisan Wu Bolin holding his craft. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Yingcheng, a county-level city in Xiaogan, is home to Asia's richest deposits of fibrous gypsum, with top-grade reserves comprising over 60 percent of the continent's total. This pristine, jade-like material has fostered the development of an exquisite art form: gypsum carving.

The tradition of gypsum carving dates back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, when Local artisans crafted gypsum pillows and square cushions, believed to possess cooling properties and alleviate heart irritability and mental confusion.

The craft has now expanded to include the study's four treasures, decorative pieces, and relief murals. Modern gypsum crafts have also innovated by incorporating sound and light technologies, making products like gypsum fragrances and lamps increasingly popular among young people.

The local government has implemented several initiatives to preserve and promote this craft. Key measures include forming a protection alliance and creating a digital archive that documents the holographic skills of 30 veteran artisans.

Authorities have also introduced gypsum art workshops in schools and offer apprentices a monthly stipend of 2,000 yuan ($280) to encourage the continuation of traditional techniques.

New media technologies have been employed to create a short video series that showcases the allure of gypsum carving through skits and vlogs. Additionally, a digital applet has been developed, enabling users to experience virtual carving online and attracting over 200,000 users.

A signature gypsum carving craft in Yingcheng. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]