Xu's Clay Creations: A Fusion of Traditional Folk Toys with Modern Materials

The Art of Xu's Clay Sculpture: A Journey of Tradition and Innovation

As the winter sun filters through the window of a modest home on Southeast Road in Chengjiang County, an elderly man named Xu Xingguo, aged 58, sits at a table surrounded by the remnants of his craft. His hands, worn and stained from years of working with clay, deftly apply color to a Maitreya figure. Nearby, a pair of old reading glasses rests atop a stack of detailed sketches, hinting at the artistic journey that has defined his life. Xu is a recognized inheritor of Xu's clay sculpture, a national-level intangible cultural heritage that embodies centuries of Chinese artistry.

A Family Legacy

Xu's workroom is filled with vibrant clay sculptures, including a golden sleeping Buddha and a gracefully shaped snake girl, evoking nostalgia for childhood. Xu fondly recalls his early days learning the craft from his father, Xu De, a disciple of renowned sculptors from the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China. Xu De's expertise laid the foundation for Xu's clay sculpture, characterized by its unique style and meticulous techniques.

The clay used in Xu's sculptures is sourced from deep underground, known for its durability and stability. This high-quality material is treated with white rubber powder to create a waterproof, smooth surface, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and practical use. Each piece undergoes a labor-intensive process involving drafting, shaping, bonding, polishing, painting, and glazing, reflecting the dedication required to master this art form.

During the 1940s and 1950s, clay sculpture flourished in the region, with many families engaged in the craft. Xu recalls a time when farmers could earn a substantial income from selling clay toys, providing a vital source of sustenance in an era marked by poverty. Despite the challenges, Xu found joy in creating clay figures, often selling them to support his family.

A Turning Point in Artistry

In 1979, Xu's life took a significant turn when he assisted his father in restoring 500 Arhat statues at the Xindu Baoguang Temple. This experience ignited his passion for large-scale clay sculpture, leading to a successful collaboration that garnered acclaim.

The duo's next major project came in 1981 when they were tasked with reconstructing the "Ghost City" tourist attraction in Fengdu County. This ambitious endeavor required the creation of over 2,000 unique figures, each inspired by folklore and mythology. Xu's artistic vision complemented his father's technical skills, allowing them to produce intricate and culturally resonant sculptures that attracted visitors from far and wide.

Over eight years, they crafted scenes such as "Shangdaoshan" and "Pan Jinlian," which captivated tourists and established the "Ghost City" as a renowned destination. Following his father's passing, Xu took on the responsibility of preserving their artistic legacy, driven by a desire to honor his father's dedication to the craft.

Continuing the Tradition

In the years that followed, Xu sought to enhance his artistic skills, studying art history and techniques from both Eastern and Western traditions. His efforts culminated in significant projects, including the design of 1,250 statues for the Luohan Temple in Mianyang City and the construction of an expansive site featuring over 12,000 small Buddha figures in Luoyang Temple.

Despite the recognition and success, Xu remains concerned about the future of clay sculpture. As younger generations migrate to urban areas for work, the number of artisans practicing this traditional craft has dwindled. The complexity of the techniques involved further complicates the preservation of this art form.

Xu's vision for the future includes creating a cultural industry around Xu's clay sculpture, aiming to attract younger artisans and integrate the craft into modern life. He spends countless hours in his studio, experimenting with new designs that resonate with contemporary audiences.

Cultural Significance and Regional Variations

Xu's clay sculptures are not only a reflection of individual artistry but also represent a rich cultural heritage. Regional differences contribute to the diverse styles found in Chinese clay sculpture. For instance, Northern clay sculptures, particularly the "Clay Man Zhang" style, emphasize realism and proportion, while Xu's Southwestern creations are known for their delicate details and vibrant colors, embodying the cultural essence of the South.

Through his dedication and innovation, Xu Xingguo strives to ensure that Xu's clay sculpture not only survives but thrives in the modern world. His commitment to passing on this cultural treasure to future generations highlights the importance of heritage in an ever-changing society. Xu's hope is to see his craft flourish, inspiring a new wave of artists to embrace and continue the legacy of clay sculpture.