Hecunju, a redwood carving studio in Tongzhou district, Nantong, has welcomed more than 50 international students from countries including Russia, Germany, and the United Kingdom over the past two years, showcasing the global appeal of this intangible cultural heritage.

An international student tries her hand at wood carving under the guidance of Zhao Xincheng. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Zhao Xincheng, a 60-year-old local craftsman with 40 years of experience, runs the studio. His apprenticeship began at 18 under the guidance of Chen Jianhua, who is now a city-level inheritor of intangible cultural heritage.

After honing his skills on softwood, Zhao tackled the more demanding redwood at the Nantong Redwood Carving Factory, mastering techniques such as relief carving, hollow carving, and inlay. He later became the backbone of a master's studio and won multiple awards at national exhibitions.

The studio's centerpiece is "Xiangrui" (Auspicious Signs). The main body of the carving is a thousand-year-old lingzhi mushroom, surrounded by well-known figures from Chinese folklore symbolizing good fortune and auspiciousness, showcasing China's auspicious culture. The work won a silver award at the 13th "Yibo Cup" of Jiangsu Arts and Crafts Expo.

When asked what attracts foreign visitors, Zhao attributed it to innovation and uniqueness, saying he makes every piece by hand, treating each as one of a kind, and blends traditional themes with modern aesthetics to bring the carved objects to life.