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Mother-of-pearl inlay is a centuries-old craft that involves shaping thin pieces of iridescent shell and embedding them into objects. This traditional art is in danger of disappearing as artisans age without apprentices to take over. But one artisan has been teaching at Hsinchu Prison, inspiring many inmates to take an interest. Chen Fu-chiang hopes this beautiful art can help them regain a sense of purpose and hope in life.

Using a grinding wheel, an artist carefully sculpts seashells into a flower and inlays it onto a wooden board, creating a beautiful work of art.

A master at this kind of mother-of-pearl inlay work, artisan Chen Fu-chiang is also an attentive teacher. The art form involves shaping thin pieces of shells and embedding them into objects. But this highly delicate and intricate craft is in danger of disappearing. Now that he’s found more interested students, Mr. Chen sees hope for the future.

Chen Fu-chiang
Shell inlay artisan
The warden really values this tradition, so he invited me to the prison to teach it. They exceeded my expectations. They selected people who had artistic backgrounds or were skilled with their hands, and they learned very quickly.

Invited to teach at Hsinchu Prison, Mr. Chen does not treat these students any differently just because they’re inmates. He gives each one an equal opportunity to learn.

Chen Fu-chiang
Shell inlay artisan
I often tell him, that student, if you don’t know, then just ask.

Han Chih-hsiang
Hsinchu Prison officer
It’s important that those who come are willing to learn and can sit still. Of course, during the process, some students discover that it’s too tiring and challenging, so they might choose to leave the class.

Under Mr. Chen’s patient tutelage, many inmates have found a sense of accomplishment from learning a beautiful art form they never thought they would have the chance to try.

Inmate
I’ve learned to focus and work diligently, and it’s helped me manage my bad temper and negative thoughts.

Inmate
We have to do each step very meticulously and carefully, to the best of our ability, before we can move on to the next one. I think the same principle should apply to life in the future as well.

Studying mother-of-pearl inlay helps these inmates find a sense of accomplishment and unlearn bad habits, giving them and their teacher new hope for the future.

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