Hello everyone, I am Chen Zhigang. Having been involved in the jade industry for over forty years, from an initial apprentice to now a researcher and practitioner of jade carving art, I have personally witnessed the evolution and development of Chinese jade carving art. Today, I would like to share some of my thoughts on the latest trends in the field of jade carving, particularly how traditional craftsmanship and digital empowerment can spark new innovations.

I. "Preservation" and "Breakthrough" in Jade Carving Art: Integrating Inheritance and Innovation

When discussing the latest developments in jade carving art, we must first clarify the relationship between "preservation" and "breakthrough." "Preservation" means safeguarding the foundation of jade carving: understanding jade materials, respecting traditional craftsmanship, and delving into cultural connotations. Chinese jade carving has a long history, from the jade dragons of the Hongshan culture to the imperial jade artifacts of the Qing Dynasty; each piece embodies the wisdom of artisans and the aesthetic sensibilities of the nation. These traditions are our precious heritage and the source of vitality for jade carving art.

However, "preservation" does not mean being stuck in old ways. In the torrent of societal development, jade carving art also needs to "break through" – to break conventions, transcend boundaries, and embrace new ideas and technologies. In the past, jade carving was often seen more as a craft, its artistic value frequently overshadowed by the rarity of its material. Today, more and more jade carving artists are emphasizing the artistry and philosophical depth of their works, elevating jade carving to the realm of pure art.

I once participated in a program called "Jade Meets Future," which supported young jade carving artists. One young artist, for example, integrated modern abstract art concepts into his jade carving creations. Utilizing the natural textures and colors of jade, combined with geometric compositions and light and shadow variations, he created a series of works with immense visual impact. Although these pieces lacked traditional auspicious patterns, their unique aesthetic expression and profound philosophical insights were refreshing to viewers, demonstrating the infinite possibilities of jade carving art in terms of themes and forms of expression.

II. Digital Empowerment: The "New Engine" for Jade Carving Art

In recent years, digital technology has been increasingly applied across various industries, and jade carving art is no exception. I believe that digital empowerment is becoming a crucial "new engine" driving the innovative development of jade carving art.

  • 3D Modeling and Design: Traditional jade carving design often relied on sketches and experience. 3D modeling technology, however, provides artists with a more intuitive and precise design tool. Through 3D software, artists can virtually cut, carve, and even simulate the effects under different lighting conditions, allowing them to visualize the final form of the work before making any physical cuts. This not only significantly improves design efficiency and accuracy but also offers artists greater creative freedom to attempt more complex and intricate structures.


For instance, a jade carving master I know specializes in openwork carvings. Previously, he would spend a significant amount of time meticulously refining designs on paper, even making clay models to verify structures. Now, using 3D modeling, he can easily design complex openwork structures on a computer and perform stress analysis to ensure the stability of the piece. This allows his works to maintain traditional charm while possessing a modern and technological feel.

  • 3D Printing and Auxiliary Carving: While the essence of jade carving lies in manual craftsmanship, 3D printing technology also shows immense potential in auxiliary carving. For example, for parts with complex structures and extremely high precision requirements, 3D printing can be used to create auxiliary jigs or models, helping carvers to position and carve more accurately. Additionally, 3D printing can be used to produce miniature models of jade carving works, facilitating artists' display and promotion efforts.


  • Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Experiences: VR/AR technologies have brought revolutionary changes to the display and dissemination of jade carving art. Through VR technology, audiences can immerse themselves in every detail of a jade carving, even "touching" the texture of the piece. AR technology, on the other hand, can overlay virtual jade carvings onto real-world environments, allowing people to appreciate the charm of jade carving in different settings. This interactive experience will undoubtedly attract more younger generations to pay attention to and appreciate jade carving art.


I once experienced VR technology at a jade carving exhibition. Through VR glasses, I felt as if I was in a jade carving museum, able to admire exquisite jade carvings from every angle, even zooming in on details to observe the jade's texture and the carving techniques. This experience far surpassed traditional glass display cases, allowing the artistic charm of jade carving to be showcased to its fullest.

III. Challenges and Opportunities: Future Outlook

Of course, digital empowerment also presents some challenges. For example, how to balance machine assistance with manual carving to avoid over-reliance on technology and losing the "human touch" of jade carving; how to protect the inheritance of traditional craftsmanship and prevent digital technology from becoming a tool for "fast-food" production – these are all questions we need to ponder deeply.

However, opportunities always outweigh challenges. I believe that as long as we maintain an open mind and organically combine tradition with modernity, craftsmanship with technology, jade carving art will undoubtedly usher in an even more brilliant future.

Summary and Suggestions:

The future of jade carving art lies in the integration of inheritance and innovation. We must both uphold the essence of traditional craftsmanship and actively embrace the changes brought by digital technology.

  • Encourage Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Jade carving artists can collaborate deeply with 3D designers, software engineers, VR/AR developers, and others to jointly explore the infinite possibilities of jade carving art.


  • Strengthen Talent Training: In jade carving education, in addition to teaching traditional carving techniques, courses such as digital design and digital modeling should also be included to cultivate jade carving talents with composite skills.


  • Build Digital Platforms: Establish professional digital platforms for jade carving art, integrating work display, design exchange, and educational training, to provide a broader space for the dissemination and development of jade carving art.


I believe that with the collective efforts of all colleagues, the brilliant oriental pearl of jade carving art will radiate an even more dazzling light in the digital age! Thank you all.