Chen Yanyan from Wuyi paints a ceramic work. [Photo/Jinhua News Media Center]

A ceramic exhibition at Jingyuan scenic area in Wuyi county, Jinhua, Zhejiang province, is inviting visitors into the world of young ceramic artist Chen Yanyan through a collection of teacups, vases, and incense burners.

Among the exhibits is a large vase from the Blossom series, notable for its intricate patterns. Chen said that the patterns do not depict specific flowers but instead capture her imaginative vision of vibrant blooms.

A large vase from Chen's Blossom series. [Photo/Jinhua News Media Center]

Chen hails from an artistic family; her father is a painter whose enthusiasm for ceramics inspired her journey into clay artistry. Returning to her hometown, Wuyi, in August 2023, she began formal ceramics training, immersing herself in the creative process.

"Painting on greenware presents its own challenges," Chen said. She employs an in-glaze technique, in which an initial layer of glaze is applied before painting and another before firing, resulting in a final product with a jade-like translucence.

Breaking away from tradition, Chen combines ash and opaque glazes to craft unique pieces. Her hand-painted ceramics, featuring elegant glazes and patterns, resonate with younger audiences. "Every design starts with a complete vision, but adjustments are made to suit each piece's form," she explained.

Chen's distinctive style and commitment to her craft have earned her recognition in various prestigious competitions. In her hands, clay, glaze, and fire merge to form functional yet artistic vessels that reflect the focused and evolving spirit of a young creator.