Engraving first originated in ancient China for the purpose of spreading and developing Buddhist culture. It didn’t become widely used as book illustrations until the Ming and Qing dynasties. Later, with the communication of engraving art between China and the world, Chinese engravings became an indispensable part of the world’s engraving art. Modern Chinese engraving keeps pace with the world in particular after the New Woodcut Movement. After tireless efforts by several generations of Chinese artists, Chinese engraving has developed its own special features.

For the 80th anniversary of the Chinese New Woodcut Movement, the Chinese Artists Association decided to celebrate 2011 as Chinese Engraving Year in memory of the 80 years of historical achievements and discuss possible ways for future development. As a result, society will be encouraged to re-examine the history, function and value of Chinese engraving.

Video: Sun Peng
Translate: Zeng Yi
Producer: Flora Yue