Ma Jiashou – Artist of Folk Clay Sculpture in Kunming City
Introduction to Ma Jiashou
Ma Jiashou (马加寿), born in 1947, is a well-known folk artist from Kunming City (昆明市), Yunnan, specializing in clay sculpture. From a young age, he developed a deep passion for the arts, particularly sculpture. Despite not receiving formal art education, Ma’s dedication and creativity allowed him to excel in his craft, and he is now renowned for his unique approach to sculpting, particularly with cement and clay.
Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
Growing up in Kunming, Ma Jiashou was fascinated by art and sculpture, often using simple tools and clay to create various figures. His early enthusiasm for art led him to pursue sculpting as a hobby. Later, as a young man, he was sent to Xishuangbanna (西双版纳) to participate in the region’s frontier settlement and work on a farm. Despite his shift to agricultural labor, Ma never abandoned his passion for sculpture and continued to explore and refine his skills during his free time.
Breakthrough in Cement Sculpting
Though Ma Jiashou had no formal training in an art institution, his relentless pursuit of sculptural knowledge led to a breakthrough in cement sculpture. He began experimenting with cement and reinforced concrete to create various artistic forms, pushing the boundaries of traditional sculpture materials. One of his notable works, “Yingba Ya” (英叭雅), is inspired by the Buddhist legends of the Dai ethnic group (傣族), showcasing his ability to blend folk traditions with innovative materials.
Realism and Exaggeration in His Clay Sculptures
Ma Jiashou’s clay sculptures are known for their realistic portrayal of subjects, combined with exaggerated elements that make his works stand out. His sculptures often feature bright colors and depict scenes from Buddhist stories, a common theme in his creations. These vibrant sculptures can be found in several locations, including the “Yuantong Temple” (圆通寺) in Kunming, as well as in Xishuangbanna (西双版纳) and Chengjiang (澄江). His ability to bring stories to life through clay and color has made his work highly regarded in the region.
Legacy and Artistic Philosophy
Ma Jiashou views art as an endless journey, constantly seeking new ways to express his creativity. He has dedicated his life to the pursuit of sculpture, believing that artistic practice is a never-ending process. His work continues to inspire many, and his sculptures are an important part of Yunnan’s folk art scene. Ma Jiashou remains steadfast in his commitment to his craft, saying, “Art is my eternal pursuit, and artistic practice has no limits. I will always remain dedicated to the pursuit of sculpture.”
