ANN/CHINA DAILY – Shi Liming, a skilled paper-making artisan based in Baoding, in Chinese provice of Hebei, has dedicated over three decades to advancing the production of premium domestic watercolour paper.
“While papermaking is among the four great inventions of our country, the inception of high quality watercolor paper came relatively later,” said Shi, who is 53 years old.
His factory primarily manufactures paper suitable for watercolor, sketching, oil painting, and industrial applications, with a strong focus on crafting top-notch watercolour paper.
Established in 1992 in the Baoding’s Jingxiu district, the Baoding Huarong Paper Factory makes products not only for domestic markets but also for customers in more than 40 countries and regions around the world. While making the products, Shi endeavours to showcase the excellence of Chinese art and craftsmanship.
At the Baohong Art Museum, which Shi established in Baoding, there are various exhibition areas for multiple functions, including an area for visitors to experience making paper by hand, another for a movable-type printing experience and an art exhibition area.
According to Shi, the museum not only serves as an exhibition hub but also as a cultural landmark that combines paper popularisation with art experience.
“I hope the museum will become a prominent destination for paper-related knowledge and artistic experience,” he said, adding that he intends to create a world-renowned cultural and creative industry base in China.
