Gao Zhiyong – Wood Carving Craftman in Yiliang County, Kunming
Early Life and Education
Gao Zhiyong (高志永), a male member of the Han ethnic group, was born in October 1973 in Huihui Village (回辉村), Kuangyuan Town (匡远镇), Yiliang County (宜良县), Kunming, Yunnan Province. His early exposure to art began in 1989 when he enrolled in Yunnan Arts University to study fine arts, laying a solid foundation for his future work in wood carving.
In 1995, Gao furthered his artistic studies by attending the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, where he specialized in sculpture. During this time, he frequently visited Shitouzhai (石头寨) in Guizhou to learn the traditional craft of making Nuo opera masks, which would later influence his work in carving.
Establishing His Artistic Career
After completing his studies in 1996, Gao returned to his hometown in Yiliang and founded the Hong Gaoyuan Art Company (红高原艺术公司). That same year, he completed a monumental 41-meter-long mural depicting the 26 ethnic groups of Yunnan for the famous Tan Hua Temple (昙华寺) in Kunming.
In 1998, Gao’s large-scale wood carving works, such as Dragon and Phoenix Presenting Auspiciousness Vase (龙凤呈祥瓶) and Nine Dragons Screen (九龙屏), were collected by relevant authorities. These pieces, along with later works, gained international recognition, contributing to Gao’s growing reputation. His achievements have been covered by local media outlets such as Yunnan Daily (云南日报), Spring City Evening News (春城晚报), and Yiliang County Television.
Artistic Achievements
Gao Zhiyong has created a large number of traditional sculptures, including representations of Buddha, dragons, and phoenixes, as well as monumental works like Zheng He’s Voyages to the Western Seas (郑和下西洋). His works have received widespread praise for their detailed craftsmanship and artistic expression. His deep knowledge of various art forms and his ability to integrate traditional Chinese artistic techniques have allowed his creations to reflect the rich heritage of the Chinese people. His works are highly valued for their unique style and artistic quality.
Gao is a folk artist rooted in grassroots culture, combining an extensive understanding of different art forms with a deep connection to traditional craftsmanship. His wood carving works are welcomed and appreciated by society, gaining recognition both domestically and internationally.
Legacy and Impact
Gao Zhiyong’s impact extends beyond his impressive body of work; he has also helped to promote and preserve the traditional art of wood carving. His contributions to the local culture and the broader art world continue to resonate today, making him a key figure in the modern artistic community of Yiliang County and Kunming.
Through his skill and dedication, Gao has contributed to the evolution of Chinese wood carving, blending traditional methods with contemporary artistic vision, ensuring the continued relevance and appreciation of this ancient craft.
