In his hand, sugar can shift into everything

Recently, a Xi'an craftsman became popular online for "making chicken wings". The truth is, he can make a whole chicken wing out of white sugar, with bones, textures, and veins, almost like a real one. He is Li Bo, a sugar artist.

Li Bo is a native of Xi'an who began learning sugar art at the age of 14. He explains that sugar art is a processing technique that involves using materials like granulated sugar, glucose, or maltose, and employing methods such as proportioning, boiling, pulling, and blowing to create independent edible or decorative food items, with aesthetic, culinary, and artistic qualities.

At 14, Li Bo apprenticed in a five-star hotel kitchen in Xi'an. He recalls being captivated when a sugar chef crafted a stunning China Rose out of sugar, during the rise of sugar art in China. At that time, sugar art primarily served as decoration for the hotel's delicate dishes.

Today, sugar art is not only limited to the presentation of dishes, but also gradually becomes a highly ornamental work of art. In Li Bo's house, a wide variety of sugar art models such as hummingbirds, lobsters, and pig's trotters are eye-catching.

Li Bo expressed that many aspects of traditional Chinese culture can be incorporated into sugar art. Elements such as the twelve Zodiac signs, mythological figures, and Chinese New Year dolls serve as excellent sources of inspiration. "These elements, with their bright colors, deep meanings, and positive connotations, enhance the competitiveness of my work in professional contests. Therefore, I plan to compete abroad when I have the opportunity in the future!" Li Bo stated.

Li Bo believes that making sugar art requires both patience and attention to detail. It is essential to manage the timing and temperature effectively during the rapid transitions between high heat and cooling, whether conceptualizing a creative idea or executing the actual process.

Recently, Li Bo dedicated significant effort to creating a work themed around "snakes", as this year is the Year of the Snake. He believes that he still has much to learn about the art of sugar art making. With a passion for sugar art, Li Bo has researched and developed his skills, allowing him to grow in this craft and bring sweetness to many others.