Shandong Yinan: Boundless Universe Showcased by Farmhouse Gourds  

Gourd, homophonic with “Fulu” which means “luck and fortune” in Chinese, is beloved in China. Gourd symbolizes healthy, longevity and peaceful life, widely used to avoid disasters and evil spirits in the traditional culture.

Gourd pyrographic art, also known as hot painting gourd or fire painting gourd, is a traditional handcraft. A soldering pen is the tool to draw pictures into the dry gourd. Gourds with pictures can be stored long as a piece of art collection.

Yin Chuanming, an old gentleman in his seventies from Xingshanyu Village of Zhangzhuang Town belonging to Linyi’s Yinan County, is a well-known craftsman with gourd pyrographic art. Walking into his home, one will see rows of gourds neatly displayed in front of the house. The different patterns on the gourds are real eye-catchers, presenting his exquisite art style. 

A table, a chair, a soldering pen, and a box of pigments constitute Yin Chuanming’s daily working environment. Holding the gourd, he uses the electric soldering pen to do the carving. Soon, a vivid peony flower appears on the gourd. “First of all, you need to conceive the rough pattern according to different gourd shapes, and then draw the outline on the gourd with a pencil, and finally use the pen to slowly make the lines and other details,” he explained. There is a high degree of coordination with hands, eyes and heart in this job, he added. Any minor carelessness would destroy the entire work. 

“Flowers Blooming in Wealth”, “Good Luck Arriving “, “Celestial Cranes Bringing Longevity” … Yin Chuanming’s gourd pyrograph is rich in auspicious blessings. The lively artistic characters and present the ancient Chinese culture. The themes are positive and profound. No wonder that his works are much loved!