The Rebirth of a Century-Old Wood Carving Workshop in Taiwan-Craftsoul Ep.4
Chen’s Wood, a wood-carving workshop based in Taichung, has witnessed the ebb and flow of Taiwan’s wood carving industry. From Jesus statues in Catholic churches to temple blocks in Taoist temples, from pastry molds to seals for celebrities, Chen’s Wood has fulfilled every kind of wood carving need. Despite the prestige and commercial success nowadays, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing for Chen’s Wood. During Taiwan’s economic boom, plaque carving was the major source of income for the workshop. As living spaces shrank, the demand for plagues declined. Automated carving machines and price war from Chinese competitors also accounted for the changes in the market. Learn more about how Chen’s Wood transformed the traditional trade and gave rise to a new and sustainable business model.
