从砚台雕刻师到产业领航员：一名党员工匠的“砚都”赋能记丨粤匠担当 兴农之道⑤

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the transformation of Zheng Tianxu from a traditional craftsman to an industry leader, emphasizing the need for innovation and adaptation in the craft industry to attract younger generations and ensure sustainability [5][6]. Group 1: Industry Challenges - The craft industry has been facing a decline, with older artisans retiring and younger individuals showing little interest in traditional crafts [10][12]. - Zheng identified three main barriers for youth engagement: long learning periods with slow results, low industry recognition and unstable income, and a disconnect between traditional techniques and modern aesthetics [13][14]. Group 2: Talent Development - Zheng took on a leadership role in the Zhaoqing Craft Art Association to shift focus from personal achievements to industry development [15][16]. - He established a talent development system that includes collaboration between schools and enterprises, mentorship from masters, and incentive competitions [17][18]. - Zheng designed comprehensive courses covering core techniques and integrated the spirit of craftsmanship into the curriculum [19][20]. Group 3: Market Transformation - Zheng recognized the need to reposition the traditional Duan inkstone from a luxury item to a more accessible product for everyday use [25][28]. - Under his guidance, the industry began exploring lifestyle-oriented products, such as portable inkstones and home decor items featuring Duan inkstone designs [29][30]. - An example includes the "Star Lake Moonlight" portable inkstone, which was redesigned to be smaller and lighter while retaining essential artistic features [30][31]. Group 4: Industry Collaboration - The Zhaoqing craft art industry has historically been fragmented, with many artisans and small businesses operating independently [42][43]. - Zheng emphasized the importance of building platforms for collaboration, leading to the establishment of the Bay Area Craft Art Boutique Exhibition, which showcased over 2,000 works and attracted more than 50,000 visitors [46][47]. - The Shenzhen Cultural Expo has also played a crucial role in promoting the Duan inkstone industry, serving as a platform for sales, brand exposure, and cultural exchange [49][51]. Group 5: Future Vision - Zheng envisions creating a national craft art exchange center and a digital museum for Duan inkstones, aiming to double the total output value of the Zhaoqing craft art industry within five years [61]. - He believes that personal creativity is linked to the overall prosperity of the industry, indicating a long-term commitment to both personal and industry growth [63][64].