Ever wondered how to save a dying artform? 🎨 That's exactly the vibe at this year's London Craft Week, a massive celebration of global skills that draws around 250,000 visitors annually. Among the standout exhibits is a fascinating contribution from China that bridges the gap between the ancient and the futuristic.
Meet Anson Lai, a talented goldsmith based in Hong Kong. He's currently turning heads by demonstrating the intricate art of gilding. While gold leaf has a deep history in China—traditionally adorning stunning temples and Buddha statues—Anson is giving it a 21st-century glow-up. 🌟
Instead of sticking only to the classics, Anson has spent the last year collaborating with a leading traditional gilder to apply this shimmering technique to something totally unexpected: 3D printed flowers of his own design. It's where high-tech manufacturing meets timeless luxury.
For Anson, this project was more than just about the aesthetics. "I think it's a really transformative journey for me because I learned and I know about the history and the culture of the gilding in Hong Kong. So we collaborate and we did it together," he shared.
It's an inspiring reminder that heritage doesn't have to be stuck in the past—with a little creativity and a 3D printer, traditional arts can bloom all over again. 🌸✨
Reference(s):
Artisans bring new life to traditional artforms at London Craft Week
cgtn.com
