The new generation of 'book doctors'

For thousands of years, Chinese characters - from simple words to full-length poems and essay texts - have been inscribed on stone as a means of publicity and heritage. These inscriptions can be copied onto paper using the stone rubbing technique.

Another reputable craftsman teaching at the institute is Ni Jianming, a print artist who used to produce his own paper for his acclaimed artworks that have been exhibited around the world.

According to Ni, students in the course study the various process in print art - including composition, drawing and printing - as well as the different paper and ink used in ancient books as it helps them better understand the quality and texture of various types of print materials.

This would in turn enable them to determine the most effective restoration method to use.

During the course, he shares with the students his experience with the material, including how he used to make paper from recycled paper scraps. He also teaches them how to design and create ex libris stamps, a miniature print that expresses one's passion for reading and books.

"In this course, the students will learn about the whole process - from the birth of a book to the theory behind it to how they should treat an ancient book as a piece of art," said Ni.

"One does not need a deep knowledge in aesthetics before he can work in the restoration field. Artistic experience and aesthetic expression in the creative process are more important factors," he said.

He added that the students enrolled in the course have managed to come up with interesting ideas and have demonstrated a great desire to learn despite not coming from artistic backgrounds.

Wang Zhao is one such student. He used to study bioscience at an agricultural institute.

"I became interested in old books while reading one in the antique department of the local library. That was when I made up my mind to turn this interest into a career," he said.