Yifeng Root Carving

Yifeng Root Carving

Yifeng root carving is an intangible cultural heritage of Jiangxi Province.

　　Yifeng root art boasts a profound cultural heritage and rich artistic foundation. Examination of root art pieces in the county museum’s collection, such as the artifact “Deer Turning Back,” suggests that Yifeng root art originated during the Wei, Jin, Sui, and Tang dynasties, flourished in the Ming and Qing periods, and can be traced back to a long and storied history.

　　 With the development of the times and the rise of tourism, Yifeng’s root art has evolved from tradition into the arena of market economics, radiating an unprecedented artistic brilliance and standing out as an extraordinary example within Yifeng’s cultural and artistic landscape.

　　 According to statistics, since 1987 when 70 root art pieces were selected to represent Jiangxi Province at an exhibition in Beijing, over 400 Yifeng root art works have been featured in various national, provincial, and regional art exhibitions, with more than 110 receiving awards — including over 20 at the national level. Shan Wenfeng’s creation “Blossoms in the Spring Breeze” won an award at the “Seventh National Root Art Fine Arts Exhibition” and is housed in the China Root Art Society. Shi Wei’s “Poyang Fishery Ode” and Wang Guishui’s “Impression of a Horse” both won second prize at the “First National Root Art Exhibition.” At the 1997 Seventh Provincial Children’s Art Festival, three out of 13 root art pieces submitted by Yifeng won first prize.

　　 Today, the community of root art creators spans all towns and villages in the county, forming a comprehensive art group that integrates root art creation with flower and potted plant production, with membership growing to over 200. Yifeng has also earned the reputation as the “Hometown of Root Carving Art.”

　　 “Remarkable roots can embody the meaning of the world; skillful hands can shape the emotions of past and present.” Appreciating root art allows one to hear a touch of magical thought, refining the soul and elevating emotions. Through the charm and artistic realm of root art, the people of Yifeng have captured the pulse of the times and glimpsed the true essence of modern culture and art.