Hello everyone, I am Chen Zhigang. I have been involved in the jade industry for over forty years, from my early days as an apprentice to now running my own jade carving studio. I have witnessed the glory and the quiet periods of jade carving art, and I have also personally experienced its transformation and rebirth in the new era. Today, I want to discuss with you what I see as the inheritance and innovation of contemporary jade carving art, sharing some of my thoughts and practices.

I. Inheritance: Upholding Tradition and Embracing Innovation, Never Forgetting the "Root" of Jade

The foundation of jade carving art lies in a profound understanding of the jade material and a reverence for traditional culture. In this new era, when we speak of inheritance, we are by no means advocating for stagnation. Instead, it is about "upholding tradition and embracing innovation."

Firstly, "upholding tradition" refers to the natural beauty of jade. I have always emphasized that the highest realm of jade carving is "ingenious craftsmanship, naturally formed." A fine piece of jade material inherently embodies the marvels of nature. The carver's responsibility is to discover and magnify this beauty, not to forcefully alter it. For example, with a piece of Hetian jade that possesses natural "qiaose" (skillfully utilized natural color variations), we should consider how to leverage this splash of color to make it the focal point of the artwork, rather than discarding it in pursuit of a predetermined pattern. I once encountered a white jade piece with natural black spots. Instead of viewing them as flaws, I ingeniously designed it into a magpie perched on a branch, with the black spots perfectly forming the magpie's eyes, instantly imbuing the piece with vibrancy and life. This kind of creation, which respects the natural attributes of the jade, is the greatest homage to the stone.

Secondly, "upholding tradition" means adhering to the essence of traditional culture. Jade carving art carries thousands of years of cultural accumulation of the Chinese nation. From the jade dragons of the Hongshan culture to the jade burial suits of the Han Dynasty, and the jade mountains of the Ming and Qing dynasties, each piece embodies the aesthetic and philosophical thought of its era. Contemporary jade carvers must deeply study traditional culture, understanding the symbolism and spiritual core behind it. For instance, when we carve Guanyin, it is not merely about depicting an image, but about expressing her compassionate spirit of saving all sentient beings. I was once invited to carve a jade Buddha for a temple. During the creative process, I not only consulted numerous Buddhist scriptures but also visited the temple multiple times to communicate with eminent monks, striving to perfectly present the wisdom and solemnity of the Buddha through the jade. Only in this way can our works possess a soul and withstand the test of time.

II. Innovation: Blending Ancient and Modern, Expanding the "Soul" of Jade

Inheritance is the foundation, and innovation is development. Contemporary jade carving art must boldly innovate on the basis of inheritance to radiate new vitality.

Firstly, there is innovation in subject matter. Traditional jade carving themes often revolve around myths, legends, and auspicious symbolism. However, with societal development, people's aesthetic tastes and spiritual needs are constantly evolving. I believe that jade carving art should pay more attention to contemporary life and integrate modern elements. For example, I have attempted to incorporate the linear sense of modern architecture into jade plaque designs, or apply the compositional concepts of abstract art to jade ornaments. These attempts allow jade carvings to no longer be lofty "antiques" but rather artworks that resonate with modern life.

Secondly, there is innovation in carving techniques. Traditional jade carving techniques are exquisite, but sometimes they also have limitations. With the advancement of technology, new tools and techniques offer more possibilities for jade carving creation. For example, laser engraving and 3D printing, while not completely replacing hand carving, can serve as auxiliary means to improve efficiency or achieve effects difficult to attain with traditional techniques. I once collaborated with a young jade carver who used 3D modeling technology to precisely render a complex geometric pattern on a jade plaque. I then refined and polished it, ultimately presenting a unique style that is both modern and traditionally elegant. Of course, I always believe that technology is a tool, but the artisan's heart is the soul.

Furthermore, there is innovation in artistic expression. Jade carving is not just about carving; it can also combine with other art forms to create new sparks. For example, combining jade carving with metal inlay, wood carving, or lacquer art can enrich the layering and visual effects of the work. I once attempted to cleverly combine a piece of natural cracked jadeite with K-gold inlay. The cracks, outlined by the gold lines, became a unique texture of the work, showcasing a beauty in imperfection. This cross-disciplinary integration gives jade carving art a broader space for expression.

III. Practical Value: The Integration of Jade Carving and Contemporary Life

In the new era, in addition to its artistic value, jade carving art should also focus on its practical value, allowing jade works to better integrate into contemporary life.

I believe that jade carving should not just be a collection piece kept on a high shelf; it can also be an accessible beauty in daily life. For example, the design of jade jewelry can be more fashionable and youthful, attracting more young people to wear it. Jade ornaments can be combined with modern home decor styles, becoming artistic decorations that enhance the quality of life. Furthermore, jade carving can be integrated with cultural and creative products, developing more derivative products with cultural connotations and practical functions. I once designed a series of tea sets made of jade, combining the warmth of jade with the elegance of the tea ceremony, which was very popular among tea enthusiasts. This design philosophy, integrating jade carving art into life, makes jade no longer an unattainable luxury but an artwork that can enhance the quality of life.

Summary and Suggestions:

Contemporary jade carving art is in a period full of opportunities and challenges. We must both uphold tradition, never forgetting the "root" of jade, and boldly innovate, expanding the "soul" of jade.

My suggestions are:

  • Deep Learning, Rooted in Tradition: Jade carvers must continuously learn traditional cultural knowledge and enhance their cultural literacy to create works with depth and profound meaning.


  • Open Mindset, Embracing Innovation: Do not be afraid to try new themes, techniques, and forms of expression. Dare to break through traditional constraints and let jade carving art radiate new vitality.


  • Focus on Life, Close to the Public: Integrate jade works into contemporary life, meet people's growing aesthetic needs, and allow more people to appreciate and own jade carving art.


  • Cooperation and Mutual Benefit, Common Development: The jade carving industry needs more communication and cooperation. The experience of the older generation combined with the creativity of the younger generation will jointly promote the prosperous development of jade carving art.


Jade has a soul, and the artisan's heart is evident. I believe that as long as we, the jade carvers, hold onto our love for jade, our dedication to art, and our reverence for culture, contemporary jade carving art will undoubtedly shine with even greater brilliance! Thank you all.