Pingtan, the closest point on the Chinese mainland to the island of Taiwan and China'ssecond international tourism island, is gaining fresh attention for something small, intricate, and deeply meaningful: Pingtan Shell Carving.

Pingtan Shell Carving work Treasure Island Taiwan crafted by senior artisan Zhan Sheng, this masterpiece symbolizes the bond between mainland and Taiwan, with Pingtan primary school students contributing to its creation. It was selected as a souvenir for the Cross-StraitsKnowledge Quiz hosted by the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council.

At a recent press conference by the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, a shell carving piece titled "Treasure Island Taiwan"made its debut. Designed by senior artisan Zhan Sheng and co-created with local elementary students, the artwork was chosen as a commemorative gift for a cross-Straits knowledge quiz. Its symbolism-"small hands connecting both sides of the Straits, shells carrying true feelings"-perfectly captures the cultural resonance of this traditional art.

Shell carving is one of Pingtan's most unique forms of intangible cultural heritage. Using natural shell tones and textures, artisans create vivid scenes-from sea creatures to flowering branches-by cutting, layering, and arranging each fragment with precision and imagination. The resulting works are often described as having the realism of sculpture and the grace of Chinese painting.

In Pingtan, artistry thrives in the smallest details. The pieces may be tiny, but their stories are grand-reflecting life by the sea, the resilience of tradition, and the rhythm of an island shaped by waves and wind.

Senior craftsman Zhan Sheng at work  

"In order for this old craft to thrive, it must stay rooted but open to new trends and markets," said Zhan Sheng, whose recent work has helped revitalize interest in shell carving.

Jiang Xinzhong, a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage inheritor, guides students in shell carving techniques. This file photo highlights Pingtan's initiative to nurture young artisans.

That revitalization is visible across Pingtan. In schools, students are introduced to the techniques of sanding, cutting, and arranging shells through heritage education programs. Master studios serve as guardians of the craft, while new creative combinations-like shell carving blended with calligraphy or contemporary design-are pushing the medium's boundaries.

At Pingtan Straits Folk Art Museum, lifelike shell carvings of flowers, landscapes, and figures attract global delegations.

The Pingtan StraitsFolk Art Museum displays dozens of these luminous works. Visitors from abroad often stop to admire them-and then roll up their sleeves to try the techniques themselves. The experience, say organizers, brings people closer not only to the artwork, but to the island's spirit.

Each shell tells a story. And in Pingtan, those stories-old and new-are being told again with fresh hands, careful hearts, and a view to the sea.

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