Page 19 - YunnanTourismCultureTimes (107)

SOUTHERN MESSENGERS 18

Revitalize traditional woodcarving with

new brilliance

传统木雕技艺焕新彩

Ratna Muni Brahmacharya is the Chair- serves as a decorative architectural fea-
man of Nepal Woodcraft Association and ture, commonly found at the entrances of
Proprietor of Ratna Wood Handicrafts. He temples, palaces, and significant buildings,
said, “Woodcarving is an essential aspect of symbolizing the warding off of evil and
the Nepalese way of life. The tradition and the welcoming of good fortune. Sha-Jhyal
evolution of woodcarving craftsmanship is a large traditional window adorned with
have endured for centuries, with roots that Toran. The production process is intricate;
can be traced back thousands of years.” even with the collaboration of five skilled
The uniqueness of Nepalese woodcarv- craftsmen, it takes a year to complete a sin-
ing craftsmanship is primarily evident in gle window.
the meticulous selection and processing of The statues of Buddha and deities play a
wood. High-quality timber sourced from vital role in the art of woodcarving. These
the Terai in southern Nepal undergoes at figures not only illustrate the deep religious
least a year of natural sun-drying before be- devotion of the Nepalese people but also
ing transformed into premium materials for showcase their dedication to artistic expres-
woodcarving. This natural drying process sion and beauty.
preserves the wood’s original texture and Confronted with the challenges of
strength, establishing a foundation for the modern industry, Nepalese woodcarving
exquisite durability of the finished carvings. craftsmanship faces the dilemma of pres-
Dipak Raj Tuladhar, manager of the ervation. Nonetheless, artisans like Ratna
Proprietor of Amarapur Wood Carving, Muni Brahmacharya and Dipak Raj Tu-
explained the woodcarving production pro- ladhar, along with other dedicated crafts-
cess to us: “First, we create a design sketch men, remain committed to safeguarding and
on paper, then transfer the design onto the passing down this traditional art form. They
wood and carve various intricate shapes also share their knowledge and skills with
based on the drawing.” the youth through training programs, allow-
Toran and Sha-Jhyal are distinctive ing Nepalese woodcarving to shine with
woodcarving products from Nepal. Toran renewed brilliance in the contemporary era.