Yang Zhanben – Inheritor of Wood -carving Craft in Mengzi County, Honghe

ang Zhanben is a woodcarving craftsman from Xin’ansuo Town, Mengzi County, Yunnan Province. Below is a detailed introduction about him:

Personal Background

Yang Zhanben was born in 1941 in Zhashaxie, Xin’ansuo Town, Mengzi County. He grew up in a family where he was exposed to the rich traditions of woodcarving. Despite not having formal schooling beyond middle school, he showed a strong interest in woodcarving from a young age and began learning the craft on his own. Over the years, he has honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of woodcarving techniques.

Craft Features

  • Material Selection: Yang Zhanben carefully selects high-quality wood, stone, bamboo, or tree roots as his materials. His works are known for their durability and fine texture.
  • Techniques: He employs various carving techniques such as round carving, relief carving, and openwork carving to create intricate and detailed designs. His works often feature traditional patterns like “Dragon and Phoenix Presenting Auspiciousness” and “Magpies Contending for Plum Blossoms,” as well as his own creative designs.
  • Artistic Style: Yang Zhanben’s woodcarving works are highly regarded for their lifelike appearance and unique style. His ability to blend artistry with practicality has made his works both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

Legacy and Contributions

  • Skill Transmission: Yang Zhanben has been actively involved in passing down his woodcarving skills to the younger generation. He has trained his two sons, ensuring the continuation of this cultural heritage.
  • Cultural Promotion: His works have gained widespread recognition and have been showcased at various exhibitions and cultural events. Through his art, he has helped to raise awareness of traditional woodcarving techniques and their cultural significance.
  • Economic Impact: By selling his woodcarving works, Yang Zhanben has not only supported his family but has also contributed to the local economy. His efforts have inspired other community members to engage in this craft, creating additional income opportunities.

Influence and Honors

  • Yang Zhanben’s dedication and exceptional skills have earned him numerous honors. In 1999, he was awarded the title of Yunnan Provincial Folk Artisan by the Yunnan Provincial Department of Culture.
  • His works have been featured in various publications and exhibitions, further cementing his status as a respected figure in the realm of woodcarving arts.
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