To showcase the artworks of cut-and-paste ceramics artist Chen San-Huo (陳三火), the National Taiwan Craft Research and Development Institute (NTCRI) launched the “Destiny Calls - Chen San-Huo’s Jiannian Art Special Exhibition (隨緣不隨我－陳三火剪黏藝術特展)” on Nov. 2 in Taipei.
The exhibition features 32 of Chen’s works, along with the tools and materials he uses. The exhibition is divided into four sections, each presenting a different stage of Chen’s career, including the beginning of his artistic journey, the turning point in the development of his established technique, his exploration for sustainable materials, and his vision for innovation in fostering creativity.
Cut-and-paste ceramics (剪黏, also known as “Jiannian”) is a traditional art craft in which the artist cuts and pastes colorful porcelain onto plaster surfaces and refines the work with detailed painting. Chen, however, has added his personal twist to the craft, where he would use a hammer to break old vases, bottles, and pots into pieces of various sizes, letting “destiny” decide what the outcome would be. His artworks feature diverse themes and playful combinations of materials, and are often infused with a touch of humor, breathing new life into this traditional craft while expanding the possibilities for contemporary adaptations.
The exhibition is taking place until Feb. 9, 2025 at the Taipei Branch of the NTCRI.