Liu Weigang – Inheritor of Stone-carving Skill in Huaping County, Lijiang 

Liu Weigang is an outstanding inheritor of the stone carving craft in Shi Long Ba Township (石龙坝彝族傣族乡), Hua Ping County (华坪县), Lijiang City (丽江市). He has left a profound mark in the inheritance and promotion of this ancient art form. Since childhood, Liu Weigang has been deeply attracted to stone carving, nurtured by the rich traditional cultural atmosphere of Shi Long Ba Township. Under the careful guidance of his elders, he embarked on the journey of learning stone carving, starting from the most basic carving techniques. After countless days and nights of practice, he gradually mastered the traditional stone carving skills, laying a solid foundation for his future artistic creations.

Liu Weigang’s stone carving works are highly praised for their exquisite craftsmanship and profound cultural connotations. His works cover a wide range of subjects, including traditional auspicious patterns as well as the unique natural landscapes and local ethnic cultural elements of Hua Ping. With his chisel, he vividly portrays the local customs and historical culture of Hua Ping on pieces of stone. While inheriting the traditional style of stone carving, Liu Weigang actively explores innovations. He boldly integrates modern elements into his works, giving the ancient art of stone carving a contemporary touch. He also experiments with combining stone carving with other art forms to revitalize the craft. For example, by integrating stone carving with cultural and creative products, he has created a series of unique works, such as stone rubbings of classic quotations, which are highly popular among the public.

As an inheritor of intangible cultural heritage, Liu Weigang is well aware of the responsibility to pass down and promote the stone carving craft. He actively participates in various cultural activities and exhibitions, showcasing the charm of stone carving to a wider audience. In Shi Long Ba Township, he regularly holds stone carving workshops, teaching tourists and local residents the skills of stone carving without reservation. He patiently guides each learner, cultivating many enthusiasts and thus preparing new forces for the inheritance of the craft. In addition, Liu Weigang keeps pace with the times and makes full use of social media and online platforms to share his works and creative experiences. By breaking geographical barriers, he allows more people to get in touch with and learn about stone carving, significantly expanding its influence.

Driven by his passion and dedication to stone carving, Liu Weigang continues to move forward on the path of inheritance and innovation. His efforts have not only revitalized the ancient craft of stone carving in Hua Ping but also injected continuous vitality into the transmission and development of traditional Chinese culture. He has become a pillar in the inheritance of stone carving skills in Hua Ping County.