阅读理解Woodcarving (木雕) is a traditional folk art form in China. Chen Jia, a young woman from Chaozhou, has concentrated (集中精力) herself on passing forward and innovating (创新) Chaozhou woodcarving.
Chen, born in the 1990s, began to learn the craft (工艺) when she was14 years old under the influence and support of her family. "I wanted to give up several times during the learning process, as I often hurt myself. It's also very difficult. My father wanted me to give up woodcarving and find an easier job. However, I fought on." Chen said.
Chen recalled that she had a strong sense of achievement when her first woodcarving artwork, which took her several months to finish, was sold. "Since I have learned it, I just keep going." said the artist.
To finish one woodcarving piece, a woodcarver usually needs more than 30 carving knives and wooden hammers of different sizes. A common theme for carvings includes different sea animals. In the past, Chaozhou woodcarvings were mainly used to decorate buildings, including serving as furniture and ceremonial objects. However, they have started to lose their charm among people living in modern life.
To attract young people to better appreciate the traditional art form, Chen has innovated on the craft in terms of its themes, shapes and usage. She now carves out small decorative objects and articles for daily use, hoping that more and more people will accept the art works as their liking.
