JDZ….The Silicate Valley of Ceramics
Baijui Towers (2017) 90″ h x 60″w x 24″d, were an experiment to see if I could successfully construct simple geometric towers with the help of epoxy resin instead of glaze.
100’s of reclaimed porcelain baijui containers filled up each tower. I hiked many miles to find these discards, which were everywhere, and what made Jingdezhen so special. When I was there in 2016, the city was going thru a major transformation.
Check out some pictures of Taoxichuan Ceramic Art Avenue and Ryan LaBar’s Studio
Resident artist Paolo Porelli and Lori-Ann Touchette, walk across the wooden bridge in Yaoli, China.
You should also visit their residency C.R.E.T.A. if ever in Rome
A very special day at the Yaoli dragon kiln. This was a generational operation, and we were hosted by the very friendly owner of this 100 year old institution.Dragon kiln 1
Our hosts at the dragon kiln site were very nice and showed us around the studios and the kiln itself. There was a hotel next door to the property, and large groups could rent out the enormous kiln and studios (for a very reasonable price; definitely affordable).Dragon kiln 2
Waterfall and traditional Chinese lunch (yummy!)
Porcelain clay is the main material used for making porcelain, and it is largely produced in the mountains surrounding Yaoli Village in Fuliang County, Jingdezhen City, located in the northeast of Jiangxi province, China.
This village is known for its natural beauty, including scenic mountains, waterfalls, and valleys, as well as cultural landmarks like ancient kiln sites and workshops. Yaoli is also known for its rich history in ceramic civilization, and is considered the capital of Jiangxi Jingdezhen porcelain.
Despite being a remote mountain village, Yaoli has preserved its original look, natural beauty, and unique customs. Visitors to the village can enjoy the countryside views, see well-preserved Ming/Qing-style architecture, and shop for unique souvenirs. Cabbage drying on the bridge (part 2)
Yaoli’s “Yanyu” Green Tea has been famous for its distinct aroma and light green color since the Tang Dynasty.
The architecture in Yaoli Village is an interesting mix of ancient and modern styles. The village is home to many well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, including ancestral halls, old dwelling houses, and school archways.