In Turpan, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, artisan Dong Yuanfu has spent over 30 years mastering the ancient painted pottery craft. From childhood clay toys to large-scale vessels, he has forged an inseparable bond with a millennia-old tradition that stretches back 3,000 years.
Each season, Dong hikes the nearby mountains to collect unique local clay. Back in his studio, he refines the raw material on the potter’s wheel, shaping forms that echo the designs of ancient civilizations. With a steady hand, he paints intricate motifs—geometric patterns, floral accents and symbols that once adorned burial jars along the Silk Road.
As industrial production swept through the Chinese mainland, this handcraft faced the risk of fading into history. Determined to keep the art alive, Dong opened training classes for villagers. In these workshops, young learners mold clay into modern teapots and lanterns, guided by techniques handed down across generations.
“When I spin the wheel, I feel a connection to potters who lived here centuries ago,” Dong says, his voice calm but resolute. Through his classes, he hopes to spark a new wave of interest in rural communities, showing that this heritage can thrive beyond museums and into everyday life.
Thanks to his efforts, the painted pottery scene in Turpan is experiencing a revival. Local markets now feature a mix of traditional jars and contemporary homeware, blending ancient art with sustainable livelihoods.
For global citizens and travelers fascinated by culture and craftsmanship, Dong’s story is a reminder that preserving heritage can fuel innovation. As industrial winds reshape our world, it’s artisans like him who bridge past and present—molding clay, painting dreams, and safeguarding the soul of a civilization.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
