In Made in China contemporary Chinese artists, designers and craftspeople explore the interaction between tradition and innovation. Their work, ranging from sustainable fashion and recycled materials to unique works of art, is a response to societal developments, and demonstrates how the culture of making in China constantly reinvents itself. The exhibition offers an inspiring look at how creativity and skill come together in a changing world, and focuses on a culture of making, both past and present.
Made in China showcases the work of contemporary Chinese artists, designers and craftspeople responding to a rapidly changing world and breathing new life into Chinese cultural traditions. These makers explore themes like sustainability, identity and craft in their work.
Susan Fang’s designs have been introducing a note of joy to daily life since she launched her label in 2017. Inspired by nature and the power of imagination, she creates clothes that exude hope and creativity. At her studio in Shanghai, Susan and a small team produce unique pieces that are all about sustainability. She has developed the innovative 'AirWeave' technique, which uses strips of pleated organza to produce a dynamic and flexible fabric that adapts to different body types. This minimises waste and ensures that her clothes are as beautiful as they are environmentally conscious. Fabric offcuts and left-over beads are used to make new accessories.
Fashion designer Ma Ke rejects fast fashion and creates sustainable clothing using traditional materials and forgotten techniques. Her goal is “to provide natural and handmade daily necessities to those who are after a simplicity and search for the essence of life.”
Shanshui, literally meaning "mountains and water", is a traditional Chinese artistic genre that focuses on the beauty of nature. It is not simply a matter of depicting landscapes. This art form emphasises the harmony between humans and nature, inspired by philosophies like Taoism. Contemporary artists like Yang Yongliang are also inspired by shanshui, but add modern elements to explore topical issues like urbanisation.
In Made in China contemporary Chinese artists, designers and craftspeople explore the interaction between
