Dear Shaded Viewers,
I had the opportunity to preview the current exhibition at MAD, “REVIVING CRAFT – métiers d’art et design contemporain de la Chine,” showcases the brilliance of China’s intangible cultural heritage and contemporary design. This editorial explores the inspiration, selection process, and goals behind this remarkable exhibition, held at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, just before the Paris Olympic Games.
The driving force behind “REVIVING CRAFT” stems from a profound engagement with media work focused on intangible cultural heritage and design. Over the years, the curator, Yang Lan, visited numerous masters, and interviewed over 30 artisans. Their dedication, artistic ingenuity, and spirit of innovation gave Yang Lan the inspiration to bring their work to life not just through media but also in a physical space.
This exhibition is the result of a collaboration between Sun Media Group and China National Brand Network, with strategic support from TopBrand Union. Yang Lan, from Sun Media Group, and Su Dan, deputy director of the China Arts and Crafts Art Museum, are co-curating this event, bringing together over 100 works by 40 renowned artists and designers, as well as more than 20 participating brands and institutions. The event marks a unique opportunity to discover, on a large scale, China’s intangible cultural heritage through an international event. Among the guests of honor were Ms. Yin Wang, Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in France, Ms. Anne-Marie Sargueil, President of the French Design Institute, Mr. Chenhua Wang, Vice President of Bosideng, and other personalities who gave speeches highlighting the importance of cultural and artistic exchanges between China and France.
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, being a sanctuary for French design and houses an extensive collection of historical French furniture, porcelain, clothing, and jewelry provides the perfect setting. Its exhibitions often highlight intercultural and interdisciplinary creations, made it an ideal venue for showcasing intangible heritage and contemporary design. Moreover, the museum’s collections illustrate the historical influence of Chinese arts, such as porcelain and silk, on French culture through the centuries.
The exhibition is divided into five thematic sections: Gold, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. These sections represent different materials and design methods. In the end 40 artists and over 80 works based on three main criteria: their status as national inheritors of intangible heritage, their continuous innovation, and their ability to express themselves through contemporary language. Additionally, digital art, multimedia, and AI was employed to enhance the presentation, using videos and AI-generated content to delve deeper into the richness of the craft. I especially appreciated the video on the tea which was enhanced by a lovely tasting experience.
The primary goal is to showcase the legacy and contemporary innovation of Chinese craftsmanship, emphasizing its global significance. In the age of artificial intelligence, the exhibition highlights the sustainable, artful production methods rooted in human observation of nature. The works on display reflect the deep emotional connections and familial traditions embedded in these crafts, offering a sense of healing and connection in today’s often isolating society.
The exhibition coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France and the Year of Cultural Tourism. The Paris Olympics, attracting global tourists and art enthusiasts, provides a perfect backdrop for this celebration of Chinese art and culture.
Visitors can closely observe exquisite works by master artisans, experiencing the natural, human, and cultural environments of their creation through immersive multimedia presentations. For example, a video showcasing Sichuan’s vast bamboo forests complements the bamboo weaving section, while the ceramic section includes footage of traditional processes in Jingdezhen, China’s porcelain capital. AI and digital art simulate embroidery stitches and the transformation of ceramic glaze during firing, offering a new perspective on these crafts.
The exhibition is accompanied by a rich program of activities, including a fashion show demonstrating the fusion of tradition and contemporary expression, a tea ceremony exploring the long history of Chinese tea culture, and a gala dinner celebrating Sino-French cultural ties. These events highlight the intricate connections between tradition and modernity, further enriching the visitor experience.
The artists that were selected exemplify the innovative spirit of contemporary Chinese design. The exhibition immerses visitors in the creative process and cultural environment of these crafts, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation.
Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth represent traditional Chinese views of the universe and the continuous transformation and integration of natural elements. These themes underscore the exhibition’s focus on the wisdom and creativity inherent in Chinese culture, symbolizing the renewal and innovation that breathe new life into traditional crafts.
The event is supported by top artists, designers, and representative companies from various industries, such as fashion, furniture, ceramics, tea, and wine. These collaborations ensure a comprehensive and diverse showcase of China’s rich cultural heritage.
“REVIVING CRAFT” is a poetic voyage through the exquisite artistry, boundless innovation, and profound cultural heritage of Chinese craftsmanship. It is a celebration of an enduring legacy, a vibrant testament to the future of intangible cultural heritage, and an invitation for audiences worldwide to forge a deeper connection and appreciation for these timeless traditions.
Later,
Diane
