China’s artistic heritage spans millennia, and few crafts are as enduring or celebrated as stone sculpture. In Quyang, a county in Hebei Province often described as the “heart of Chinese stone carving,” sculptor Cui Xiao Gang has emerged as a defining figure of modern Chinese sculpture. Born on 15 August 1980, Cui blends classical techniques with contemporary design, creating marble works that captivate both visually and emotionally. His sculptures are a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and artistic innovation, representing a bridge between tradition and modernity in the world of fine art.
A Childhood Steeped in Stone
Cui Xiao Gang’s relationship with marble began at home. Raised in Quyang County, he was surrounded by raw stone, chisels, and the rhythmic sound of carving from a young age. Both his father and uncle were skilled artisans, practicing traditional Chinese stone carving for generations. From his earliest days, Cui absorbed the craft through observation and hands-on practice, developing patience, precision, and an intuitive understanding of marble’s potential.
Unlike many modern sculptors who begin with formal academic training, Cui’s education was profoundly experiential. He spent countless hours drawing, engraving, and practicing classical carving techniques on local marble. These formative experiences nurtured not only his technical abilities but also his artistic sensibility. Over time, the connection with stone evolved from a skill set into a philosophical dialogue, in which marble became a medium for expressing emotion, human form, and natural beauty.
Cui’s early training also instilled a respect for proportion, balance, and subtle expression. His figures are never overstated; instead, they exhibit serenity and natural grace, reflecting a deep understanding of human anatomy and classical aesthetics. This foundational experience continues to influence his approach, shaping each piece with patience and contemplation.
Quyang: The Cradle of Chinese Stone Carving
Quyang County’s history is inseparable from the development of Chinese stone sculpture. For over 2,000 years, artisans from the region have produced works for temples, palaces, and public gardens throughout China. Quyang’s marble is prized for its fine grain, smooth texture, and adaptability to intricate carving, making it ideal for both traditional and contemporary sculpture.
For Cui, remaining in Quyang was a deliberate choice rooted in pride and responsibility. His workshop functions not only as a creative studio but also as a training center for apprentices. Through mentorship, he ensures the continuity of centuries-old carving traditions while fostering innovation that keeps the art form vibrant and relevant in the 21st century.
The town itself contributes to his work in subtle ways. Surrounded by a community steeped in artistic heritage, Cui is immersed in a culture that values meticulous craftsmanship, cultural continuity, and appreciation of form. Quyang’s significance as a historical center for stone sculpture provides both inspiration and a living connection to the past.
The Philosophy Behind His Craft
Cui Xiao Gang approaches sculpture as a collaboration between artist and material. Before beginning a project, he carefully studies each marble block for its veins, textures, and natural imperfections. Rather than imposing a predetermined design, he allows the stone to guide the creation process. This approach ensures that every sculpture feels organic, balanced, and harmonious.
Human figures dominate Cui’s portfolio, yet they are subtle and meditative rather than dramatic. Smooth, flowing lines meet raw, natural textures to create depth and tactile contrast. Each piece encourages viewers to reflect on the craftsmanship and the emotion embedded within the marble. The interplay between polished and untouched surfaces adds a dynamic visual tension, revealing both the material’s character and the artist’s sensitivity.
Cui’s philosophy reflects Daoist principles, emphasizing harmony between humans and nature. By working with the stone rather than against it, his sculptures achieve a quiet energy that resonates with viewers, drawing them into contemplative engagement.
Merging Tradition With Modern Aesthetics
Cui Xiao Gang skillfully combines centuries-old Chinese carving techniques with contemporary design principles. He draws inspiration from classical Buddhist sculptures and Tang Dynasty figurines, celebrated for their poise, elegance, and subtle detailing. These traditional influences are blended with minimalist modern aesthetics, producing works that are both timeless and adaptable to diverse settings.
This synthesis allows Cui’s sculptures to harmonize with ancient temple gardens, contemporary corporate spaces, and international exhibitions. By bridging historical craftsmanship with modern artistic sensibilities, he has elevated his profile not only in China but across the global art scene. His works demonstrate that traditional techniques remain relevant when thoughtfully adapted to contemporary design.
Signature Works and International Commissions
Cui Xiao Gang’s mastery has led to numerous prestigious commissions worldwide, reflecting both the technical excellence and emotional depth of his work.
Huawei Headquarters, Shenzhen, China
At Huawei’s Shenzhen campus, Cui created two major sculptures: a reclining female figure symbolizing grace and tranquility and a standing figure representing strength and contemplation. These works combine the precision of traditional hand-carving with modern aesthetics, offering a serene presence in a high-tech corporate environment. By integrating classical marble carving with contemporary corporate architecture, the pieces provide both artistic value and a sense of calm for employees and visitors.
The First Garden, Paju, South Korea
Cui’s outdoor sculptures in The First Garden in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, demonstrate the universal appeal of traditional Chinese marble carving. Set within a major cultural and recreational park, his human figures, posed in reflective and meditative stances, engage with the surrounding environment. These sculptures highlight how cultural heritage can resonate internationally, conveying emotion and narrative without language.
Religious Commissions in Italy
For the Parrocchia di Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo in Avellino, Italy, Cui created religious sculptures that blend Eastern craftsmanship with Western iconography. These works respect Catholic traditions while showcasing the elegance, subtlety, and refinement characteristic of Chinese marble carving. They illustrate Cui’s versatility and his ability to adapt traditional techniques to cross-cultural contexts.
Upcoming Exhibits in Atri, Italy
Cui is preparing exhibitions at the Giardino Ducale Nicola e Luigi Sorricchio in Atri, Italy. Set in a historic garden, these works will foster dialogue between Chinese and Italian artistic traditions, highlighting cultural exchange and the contemporary relevance of traditional marble sculpture.
Techniques and Materials
Marble is Cui’s primary medium, though he occasionally works with other stones for specific projects. Quyang marble is prized for its fine grain, luminous finish, and ability to be carved with great detail. These properties allow Cui to create intricate surfaces while maintaining clarity and elegance in form.
Cui combines traditional hand tools with modern precision instruments, striking a balance between tactile artistry and technical accuracy. His finishing techniques often leave sections of stone raw, contrasting with polished areas to create visual depth and highlight the marble’s natural character. This approach emphasizes the material’s inherent beauty while reinforcing the contemplative nature of his sculptures.
Influence and Legacy
Over the past two decades, Cui Xiao Gang has become a prominent figure in contemporary Chinese sculpture. His work has been displayed in international exhibitions and acquired by museums and private collectors who value both technical mastery and emotional resonance.
Beyond personal acclaim, Cui is a dedicated mentor. His workshop attracts apprentices from across China, passing down traditional techniques, ethical principles, and artistic philosophies. By teaching the next generation, he ensures that Chinese marble carving remains both a living craft and a culturally meaningful practice. His focus on authenticity and handcraft aligns with global trends favoring sustainable, culturally significant art over mass-produced art.
Philosophy of Stone
At the heart of Cui’s practice is a profound respect for marble. Each block is treated as a collaborator rather than a passive medium. This patient’s meditative approach echoes Daoist principles of balance and harmony with nature.
Cui favors subtle, introspective expressions in his figures. His works invite quiet reflection rather than overwhelm viewers with dramatic gestures. This approach fosters a contemplative experience, allowing audiences to appreciate both the craftsmanship and the material’s natural essence. The result is a body of work that communicates quietly yet powerfully across cultures and generations.
Contemporary Chinese Sculpture in 2025
By 2025, Chinese sculpture will have gained significant international recognition. Artists like Cui Xiao Gang exemplify the global relevance of traditional techniques when paired with contemporary vision. Collectors, galleries, and museums increasingly seek works that honor cultural heritage while reflecting modern sensibilities.
Cui demonstrates that classical marble carving is not obsolete. His ability to adapt traditional techniques for corporate installations, garden exhibits, and cross-cultural commissions underscores the ongoing vitality of Chinese sculpture. His works bridge historical craftsmanship and modern design, appealing to audiences who appreciate both artistic heritage and contemporary aesthetics.
Life in Quyang
Despite global acclaim, Cui remains deeply rooted in Quyang. His workshop functions as a creative studio, cultural hub, and training center. He actively participates in initiatives that celebrate Quyang’s artistic culture, ensuring the town remains recognized as the historical heart of Chinese stone carving.
Cui’s commitment to remaining in his hometown reinforces the importance of place in preserving cultural and artistic traditions. It illustrates that innovation and heritage can coexist, creating a dynamic environment for education, mentorship, and creation.
Mastering Marble and Preserving Tradition
Cui Xiao Gang represents a rare fusion of technical mastery, artistic sensitivity, and cultural stewardship. His sculptures convey serenity, emotion, and timeless beauty, proving that traditional Chinese marble carving can evolve while maintaining its essence.
By mentoring apprentices and remaining rooted in Quyang, Cui ensures the survival and growth of an ancient craft. His work demonstrates that tradition is not a limitation but a foundation for innovation. In a world increasingly dominated by mass production, Cui’s dedication to handmade, culturally meaningful art offers inspiration and reassurance.
Cui Xiao Gang’s legacy is a testament to the enduring relevance of Chinese marble sculpture, bridging history, culture, and modern artistic expression. His work continues to inspire artists, collectors, and audiences worldwide, affirming that traditional craftsmanship remains vital and vibrant in the twenty-first century.