In a time of mechanized production, how do traditional carpenters earn a living by making handcrafted products? Chen Zekun, a post-95s carpenter, answers, "Mechanized production has indeed replaced some positions of traditional carpenters, but this tendency can also highlight the scarcity and value of high-end handcrafted products."
Apprentice
Growing up in a family which makes a living by producing redwood furniture, Chen Zekun has kept close contact with carpenters and redwood furniture since childhood. Inspired by his family, especially his father, he fell in love with this industry.
In 2015, he was enrolled in the Guangzhou Light Industry Technician College, majoring in industrial arts. "As I'd determined to become a carpenter, I needed to choose this major to make full preparations to undertake the techniques of redwood furniture."
Milestone
In his second year in the College, Chen Zekun encountered an important opportunity for his career. His dean encouraged him to participate in the Worldskills Competition.
In order to prepare for the competition, Chen devoted himself to intense training. "I trained for more than ten hours a day in the following three to four months," he said.
Chen Zekun in the Worldskills Competition (Photo provided to Newsgd.com)
The joinery section Chen Zekun participated in the competition focused on the fineness of the entries, with rigorous standards. In the end, he won the Medallion for Excellence of the competition. "This is the first time for the competition's joinery section to see Chinese participants, so, although I didn't win the gold medal, I still feel proud that I can represent my country to win the Medallion for Excellence. This award is a milestone for my career."
Chen Zekun won the Medallion for Excellence of Worldskills Abu Dhabi 2017 in Joinery (Photo provided to Newsgd.com)
Inheritance
After taking part in the Worldskills Competition, Chen has a broader horizon. He aspires to bring more possibilities to redwood furniture by making full use of woodworking techniques.
After discussing with his family, Chen Zekun decided to start his own business.
(Photo: Pan Rongjun)
Two years later, Chen's woodworking business has made some achievements. He has received a variety of orders, like customized furnitures, and wooden teaching tools. Meanwhile, he has also met many like-minded woodworking enthusiasts.
Chen Zekun makes some renovations based on traditional redwood furniture, such as mini furniture, artifacts, and special pieces for display.
"The woodworking craftsmanship has evolved for thousands of years through unremitting endeavors of numerous ancestors. Now, I want to try my best for it."
Co-presented by the Human Resources and Social Security Department of Guangdong Province & GDToday
Author | Nancy (intern)
Video editor | Holly
Editor | Wing, Olivia, Monica, Jerry
