International Pavilion
Chinese Design: Harmony in Diversity
This year’s Chinese Pavilion is presented by Art and Design Magazine who bring the exhibition “Chinese Design: Harmony in Diversity” to Royal Mint Court.
The show aims to showcase technological advancements and aesthetic developments in craft design and creation today. Chinese crafts possess their own unique styling and decorative language and this International Pavilion serves as a window on this aspect of the evolution of modern Chinese culture.
Visitors to the exhibition will experience two important Chinese principles – ‘harmony’ and ‘elegance’ through the mediums of costume, ceramics, bamboo weaving and lacquerwork. Here we offer just a hint of the rich cultural heritage to be explored.
Flower of Ethnic Costume
Throughout history, each of the 56 ethnic groups in China has crafted its own unique and intimate heritage of clothing. Makers have accumulated rich experience in design, weaving, printing, dyeing, and embroidery, boasting high artistic standards and technical skills. This exhibition focuses on showcasing the costumes of the Han, Miao, and Yi ethnic groups. Marvel at the exquisite silk embroidery of Han clothing which frequently appears on diplomatic occasions, the grand attire of the Miao people, which encompasses over 200 diverse styles, and the rich colours of the Yi costumes, adorned with a large amount of silverware and embroidery.
Image: Shanghai Girl Gesang Flower Haute Couture series, designed by Ye Qing, Zhang Lili, Lin Hua
Flower of Bamboo Weaving
In China, bamboo symbolises integrity and nobility. An ancient handicraft, bamboo weaving not only demonstrates humans’ ingenious use of natural resources, but also carries rich cultural and historic values. The origin of Chinese bamboo weaving can be traced back to ancient times. With the development of agriculture and animal husbandry, people began to use bamboo to weave various containers for storing food. Only later did it become a form of artistic expression. This exhibition will showcase the finest contemporary examples such as the work of bamboo weaving sculpture artist He Yuefeng whose work is shown here.
Image: Shi Wei Yun Gen, designed by He Yuefeng
Exhibition runs 13-19 May | Please note that advance registration is essential | Book now
Visit Historic Royal Mint Court
The Chinese Pavilion is hosted at London’s grade-II-listed Royal Mint Court set among the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the River Thames, London City Hall, and the City of London’s financial district. The main building was first constructed in 1805, designed by the renowned architect Robert Smirke, who also worked for the British Museum. Visitors to the exhibition will not only be able to appreciate the beauty of traditional Chinese craftsmanship, but will have the rare opportunity to see inside this important piece of historical British architecture.
Royal Mint Court, EC3N 4QN Find out more and register
Special Events
Opening Ceremony
In addition to the exhibition itself, guests are invited to attend the opening ceremony where you will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Chinese tea as well as performances of classical and folk dances by local artists.
13 May, 14:00 – 16:00 | Book now
Lectures and workshops
Throughout the week the exhibition will host three themed activities focused on ceramics, fabrics and capacity building, sharing with guests both the making process and social impact of these fascinating crafts.
Chinese Craft – Ceramics (lecture and workshop) | 14 May 14:30-16:30
Chinese Craft – Silk (lecture and workshop) | 15 May 14:30-16:30
Capacity Building through Chinese Craft (lecture and workshop) | 18 May 14:30-16:30
Guests are kindly requested to register in advance on the London Craft Week website
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