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The Journey of Ceramics — 2023 Jingdezhen International Ceramic Art Biennale
Curators: Lyu Pinchang, Torbj?rn Kvasb?

In 2023, we reunite once more, carrying forward the spirit of ceramics as we embark on a new journey of ceramics.
“Li Sao”, a pre-Qin Dynasty poem, states, “The way forward, long and tight; I search for the ideal, far and wide.” This is also the vision and commitment of contemporary ceramic artists.
More than one thousand years ago, the Maritime Silk Road opened up channels for the exchange of material and spiritual civilizations between the East and the West, allowing the splendid culture of the Chinese nation to illuminate the world. As one of China’s most significant inventions, ceramics has long become the pride and symbol of our country. The call of “china” echoes far and wide, attracting attention worldwide—a source of great glory and honor. Ten years ago, with the proposal of the “Belt and Road” initiative advocated by General Secretary Xi, our country has brazed a new trail, creating a fresh “Silk Road Spirit” and seeking a contemporary approach for cultural exchanges between the East and the West. As a pivotal cultural industry export project, ceramics was among the first products to be integrated into the world trade community. As a result, the Chinese ceramic culture has gained a renewed significance in this new era.

Five years ago, Jingdezhen embraced unprecedented opportunities. The initiation and construction of the “Jingdezhen National Ceramic Culture Inheritance and Innovation Pilot Zone” project marked a new trajectory for the development of Jingdezhen’s ceramic industry. This endeavor has established a fresh platform for international cultural exchanges, propelling Jingdezhen into a prominent role as the leading ceramic production area in China.

Two years ago, The Spirit of Ceramics: the 2021 Jingdezhen International Ceramic Art Biennale marked a significant milestone. The biennale was a natural expression of the cultural spirit of the new era, a seamless continuation and inheritance of the “Silk Road Spirit,” and a response to the “Belt and Road” initiative. This response materialized through the implementation of the “Experimental Zone” project, which has not only opened new avenues but also provided valuable references for the exchange of ceramic culture among different countries and regions.
Jingdezhen, a city born and thriving from porcelain, holds a rich legacy of traditional Chinese ceramic culture and stands as a significant birthplace of global ceramic art. Centered around Jingdezhen and themed The Journey of Ceramics, this Biennale invites us on an exploration encompassing culture, time, space, soul, and the unknown.
Journey of Culture The cultural journey is a progression of creating and tracing civilization. Clay and fire bear the genesis and evolution of human civilization, and their cultural value and significance have been unmistakable throughout history. The Journey of Ceramics not only conveys the spirit of inheritance and innovation, but also embodies independent thought and academic spirit. More importantly, it conveys the spirit of equal dialogue and exchange between different cultures. The splendid ceramic culture is not just the history of the development of technology and art; it is also a history of the civilizations of various ethnicities, their ways of life, religious beliefs, and aesthetic concepts. The contemporary reinterpretation of the inherent language of ceramics by artists from different backgrounds is a collision between multiple cultures and an unfettered exploration of thought.
Journey through Time On the “journey through time”, we witness the shifts in eras and contemplate the passage of time. Ceramic art has woven itself into the extensive tapestry of human history, progressing from primitive pottery to the varied contemporary ceramics we see today. In diverse cultural settings, ceramic art has fostered distinct artistic styles, persistently evolving and flourishing over millennia. It encapsulates the ideals and aspirations of people across different epochs, leaving behind instances of beauty and cherished memories. Transitioning from traditional craftsmanship to contemporary artistic experimentation is both an inheritance and a transformative process. Ceramics, as a tangible medium, traverses space and time, allowing us to feel the cultural postures and transformations of different epochs.

Journey across Space This journey is a voyage of transcending time and space, bridging gaps along the way. The continuation of the “Silk Road Spirit” and the implementation of the “Belt and Road” initiative have brought us closer, fostering tighter cultural exchange and cooperation. As globalization facilitates the fusion of diverse ethnicities, ceramics has evolved into a distinctive artistic language for global communication. Jingdezhen, as a global hub for ceramic production, plays host to this notable ceramic art exhibition, bringing the world’s premier ceramic artworks on a captivating journey here. The exhibition interlaces distinct spatial entities within a shared space, enabling a collective encounter where diverse thoughts collide and coalesce.
Journey of the Soul On this journey, one gains insights into the world and discovers oneself. Artistic creation is intimately tied to the individual expression, and ceramic artists, driven by sincerity and inspiration, have crafted remarkable works. Through exploration and experimentation with ceramic materials, they infuse their emotions into their creations. Ceramic works transcend mere visual perception; they embody an expression of the artist’s soul. Behind each piece lies a spiritual odyssey, involving an understanding of materials, artistic contemplation, and mastery of skills. Simultaneously, in the viewer’s journey, there is an appreciation of art, a resonance of emotions, and a purification of the soul.

Journey into the Unknown This journey is a process of seeking possibilities and exploring the unknown. Ceramic materials offer infinite potential and an experimental space of the unknown, constituting the intrinsic charm of ceramic art. Technological advancements, progress in techniques, and reciprocal contributions from various disciplines continually expand the boundaries and dimensions of ceramic materials. Similarly, The Journey of Ceramics is an ongoing exploration within the realm of the unknown, advancing and seeking. As the saying goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” and every step of human progress relies on the diligent efforts of countless individuals. The modest contributions we make today are undoubtedly a part of the driving force for the future prosperity and flourishing of ceramic art.
The heart of the journey resides profoundly in the process—within the exploration, growth, and sublimation that unfolds along the way. Following the successful staging of the inaugural Jingdezhen International Ceramic Art Biennale in 2021, we have gained a profound understanding of the roots of both traditional and innovative ceramic art creation. This experience has allowed us to appreciate the significance and value of artistic and cultural exchange, enlightening us about the responsibility and mission inherent in spreading ceramic culture.The Journey of Ceramics is, likewise, a “road to distant places,” fraught with difficulties and challenges that require our persistent dedication and innovation. At the same time, it is a path of exploration, brimming with unknowns and hope, demanding continuous efforts, inquiries, and realizations. The future is a weave of the known and unknown, and while we cannot predict it entirely, we can inscribe the unknown of ceramics with our limited knowledge. As we document the magnificent voyage of ceramic culture, let us approach it with humility and reverence, embarking on a journey of exploration that will never end.

Much like the inaugural The Spirit of Ceramics, the upcoming The Journey of Ceramics, the 2023 Jingdezhen International Ceramic Art Biennale, continues to be co-curated by Mr. Torbj?rn Kvasb?, President of the International Academy of Ceramics (IAC), and myself. We remain committed to the spirit of ceramics and the principles outlined in the IAC declaration. Our endeavors are focused on conveying the essence of our respective national cultures and fostering the mutual prosperity of global ceramic culture.The Journey of Ceramics embodies an exploration into the development, innovation, and integration of ceramic culture and art. It serves as an exploration for the Jingdezhen International Ceramic Art Biennale itself.
During this Biennale, we are pleased to present a series of special exhibitions, parallel exhibitions, and high-level academic forums. This includes special exhibitions such as “The World of Diversity: 2023 Latin American Contemporary Ceramic Art Invitational Exhibition,” “‘Expanding’ - 2023 Brazilian Contemporary Ceramic Art Invitational Exhibition,” parallel exhibitions like “Form of Objects 2023 International Contemporary Ceramic Painting Nomination Exhibition,” and “Clay and the World: 2023 International Ceramic Film Screening.” Additionally, we are hosting the “Opportunity and Challenge: 2nd International Forum of Ceramic Road International Ceramic Education Alliance,” along with a range of academic activities.

This edition of the Biennale introduces the prestigious “Jinglan Award” for the first time. “Jinglan” symbolizes the cobalt blue of Jingdezhen, representing not only the traditional blue-and-white porcelain but also China’s cultural outreach to the world, venturing into the deep blue oceans and embodying the essence of innovation. It serves as a platform where innovation surpasses tradition and symbolizes the boundless aspirations like the clear blue sky.
The future of the Biennale lies in maintaining high standards, internationalization, and, most importantly, sustainability. We aim to build upon each edition, generation after generation, and fulfill our blueprint comprehensively. In doing so, we will polish the “calling card” of Jingdezhen ceramics and Chinese ceramics even brighter.

The Journey of Ceramics — 2023 Jingdezhen International Ceramic Art Biennale
Curators: Lyu Pinchang, Torbj?rn Kvasb?
November 22, 2023