Preserving Happiness: Skilled Craftsmen in Kashgar's Old City Craft Wooden Wonders
2023-10-10
In the crisp autumn air of Kashgar, where the sky is a vibrant shade of blue and migratory birds paint the scenery, one can find the childhood haven of traditional wooden crafts at the High Platform Residential Area within the ancient city. Here, Maimiti Ming, a young artisan, is diligently assembling a wooden cradle. Behind him, shelves are adorned with an array of wooden spoons, bowls, plates, pillows, and an assortment of meticulously crafted items, including children's toys, household utensils, and various wooden ornaments.
"I used to focus only on making wooden cradles. However, with the increasing number of tourists visiting Kashgar in recent years, I started experimenting with various handicrafts, and my income has significantly increased," Maimiti Ming shares with a cheerful grin.
As Kashgar's Old City attains the prestigious status of a 5A-level national tourist attraction, the locals are enjoying the benefits of the tourism boom, leading to a transformed way of life. Maimiti Ming's modest shop, initially less than 30 square meters, has expanded to its current size of 130 square meters. The range of wooden crafts in the store has evolved from primary cradles to an extensive selection of bowls, cups, toys, and more.
Carrying on the family legacy, Maimiti Ming has not only inherited traditional techniques but has also dedicated himself to mastering modern arts and crafts. His wood carvings showcase intricate patterns, sometimes using electric irons to create lifelike portraits, flowers, and other motifs on the wooden pieces. Some crafts even require the addition of colorful paintings. Compared to the past, the standards for wooden handicrafts have risen, prompting Maimiti Ming to learn online techniques to enhance the vitality and market value of his products.
After years of exploration, he now supplies his creations to various handicraft stores in the Old City, boasting a monthly income exceeding 20,000 yuan, adding flavor to his life.
Confident about the future, Maimiti Ming remarks, "As long as one works diligently, money can be earned. With an increasing number of tourists visiting Kashgar's Old City, our business will undoubtedly thrive."
As stewards of wooden craftsmanship, Xi'an Zhuyunxiang endeavors to uphold the spirit of artisans, striving to create products that leave customers thoroughly satisfied. For inquiries about our products and services, please contact sherry@zyxwoodencraft.com.