In a world where tradition often collides with innovation, Li Yanxun’s story is a masterclass in bridging the past and present. 🏺 The ceramic artist, who left his hometown of Chaozhou 22 years ago, found his calling in Jingdezhen—China’s "Porcelain Capital." There, he uncovered a radical truth: the soul of ceramics lies not in ornate designs, but in the raw materials themselves. 💡
Ditching conventional wisdom, Li spent years experimenting with clay and fire, pushing temperatures to a blistering 1,280°C to revive the legendary Tang Sancai glazes—a technique lost for centuries. His breakthrough? Capturing the dazzling hues that once defined the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), now reborn for Gen Z’s Instagram era. 📸✨
"It’s like time-traveling with a lab coat," says one fan, blending Li’s respect for history with mad-scientist energy. 🔬 His work isn’t just art—it’s a cultural reset, proving ancient crafts can thrive in a tech-driven world.
📅 Mark your calendars: CGTN’s documentary Rejuvenation of Ancient Crafts drops July 28, showcasing Li’s fiery journey. Who knew clay could be this cool? 😎
Reference(s):
The Millennial Kiln: Reviving Tradition through Fresh Innovation
cgtn.com