Jingdezhen: Where Ancient Ceramics Meet Modern Passion

Step into Jingdezhen, China’s 2,000-year-old ceramic capital, where clay whispers stories of dynasties past and modern artists mold new dreams. Known as the 'Porcelain City,' this cultural gem in Jiangxi Province has become a magnet for creators worldwide, blending tradition with boundary-pushing innovation.

French ceramic artist Camille Grandaty, who’s called Jingdezhen home for 10 years, describes it as a place where 'the kilns never sleep.' 'Every crackle of pottery here feels like dialogue with history,' she says, explaining how local artisans share ancient techniques with global creators in buzzing studio collectives.

Wander through the Pottery Workshop district, and you’ll spot Gen-Z designers using 3D-printed molds beside masters hand-painting cobalt-blue patterns from the Ming era. The city’s weekend markets burst with everything from viral #TikTokCeramics to museum-quality vases—all priced under a street-food skewer.

’Jingdezhen teaches patience,’ Camille laughs. ‘My first year here, I smashed 100 bowls. Now I sell them in Paris galleries.’

With new artist residencies and a Ceramic Culture Tourism Zone launching this fall, Jingdezhen is crafting its future while honoring its legacy. Perfect for travelers seeking Instagram-worthy workshops or entrepreneurs eyeing Asia’s booming artisan economy.

Reference(s):

Jingdezhen: A Glimpse into a millennium of ceramics

cgtn.com