Founded in April 2006, the Oriental Fish Bone Gallery (东方鱼骨艺术馆) is located on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen and is recognized as the first specialized fish bone art gallery in China and internationally. This innovative art form transforms waste into treasure, showcasing the remarkable talent and dedication of renowned fish bone artist Lin Hanbing. With over two decades of meticulous research, Lin has received a national invention patent for his pioneering work, marking the emergence of a new marine cultural art.
Born in September 1964 in Zhangzhou, Fujian Province, Lin Hanbing, also known as Yue He, is a distinguished member of several prestigious art and collector associations. These include the China Arts and Crafts Society, the Fujian Collectors Association, the Fujian Folk Artists Association, and the Xiamen Folk Artists Association. His expertise and passion have led to the development of fish bone art, a unique and environmentally friendly art form.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Fish Bone Gallery
- Other Attractions on Gulangyu
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 0.5 – 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | 60 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 18.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0592-2571269 |
Location and Transportation
The Oriental Fish Bone Gallery is located at 27 Guxin Road, Gulangyu Island, within the Yangjiayuan Villa. After taking a ferry to Gulangyu Island, visitors can easily walk to the gallery from the ferry terminal.
Highlights of Fish Bone Gallery
The Art of Fish Bone
Fish bone art uses natural fish bones as the primary creative material. Common components include fish bones, fish spines, fish fins, fish scales, fish eyes, shrimp whiskers, and crab shells—materials typically discarded after meals. The creation process involves 12 meticulous steps: removing flesh, whitening, deodorizing, removing fishy smells, mold-proofing, and drying, among others. The diverse shapes and forms of different fish species provide a vast array of materials, allowing for endless creative possibilities.
Lin Hanbing’s compositions range from lifelike realistic paintings depicting flowers, birds, and animals to abstract and expressive pieces that convey profound meanings. The intricate arrangement and thoughtful combination of these fish bone materials result in stunning works of art that captivate and intrigue viewers.
Works in the Gallery
Visitors to the Oriental Fish Bone Gallery will find an impressive collection of artworks that are both realistic and whimsical. The gallery offers an immersive experience where the creativity and ingenuity of fish bone art are on full display. Each piece tells a story, drawing viewers into the delicate and imaginative world crafted from the remnants of aquatic creatures.
For those fortunate enough, there is a chance to observe the artist at work, witnessing firsthand the delicate process of transforming fish bones into exquisite art. This unique opportunity provides insight into the painstaking and skillful techniques required to produce these masterpieces.
