The Xiling Seal Engraver's Society, a Chinese arts organization based in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province. It is the oldest Chinese society formed by specialists in seal engraving, calligraphy and painting. [Photo/IC]

The Xiling Seal Art Society, a Chinese arts organization based in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, was founded in 1904. It is the oldest Chinese society formed by specialists in seal engraving, calligraphy and painting.

Tong Yanfang, deputy director of Xiling Seal Art Society started to learn seal graving when he was 16 years old. For more than half a century, aside from inheriting the traditional skills, he developed the craft with his own insights.

As people are essential to the inheritance of traditional craft, the art society has not only retained the traditional “master and apprentice" teaching method, but also offered seal engraving lovers with experience opportunities in working studios or online teachings.

Speaking of the fusion between tradition and innovation, Wang Enqing, chairman of Xiling Culture and Creative Co noted that the best way is to integrate products with people's lives. As the users grow older and their life experience become richer, they will have a better understanding of traditions and history.

Masterpieces on display at the Xiling Seal Engraver's Society [Photo by Zhang Xingjian/chinadaily.com.cn]