Masterpieces from the anagama kiln by Taiwanese artist Zhang Gu Zhi have their own unique character. At first glance, the rough, unpolished and robust pieces hide the beauty and elegance that we will discover when we examine them in more detail. Then we find many small details and small beauties, original reflections and metallic or oil effects on his pieces.
Zhang Gu Zhi – Taiwanese Tea Pottery from Anagama Kiln
Zhang Gu Zhi
Zhang Gu Zi works mostly without glazes. All the resulting effects and textures on the ceramic surface are created randomly and uncontrollably due to the specific environment inside the kiln during firing. There, the result is created by temperature, ash flow, placement in the kiln, etc. This makes his creation unique and has a deep meaning and subtext.
Story and Inspiration
Zhang Gu Zhi was born in 1979 in Kaohsiung, in the south of the island, where he also lives and works. His artistic story begins in 1995, when he was inspired by ceramicist Zheng-Zhi Lin. Since 1998, he has been studying and working at the famous Taozhixiang Ceramic Art Creation Studio) in Miaoli under the guidance of a prominent artist Mr. Ye Guoting. In 2002, he learned the technique of wood-firing from Mr. Shui-Zhuen Zheng. Since 2004 to the present, he has participated in many exhibitions and ceramic competitions, such as the prestigious Taiwan Golden Pot Prize.
Exhibitions and competitions
2004 participation in the second year of the Taiwan Golden Prize competition
2007 first exhibition in Cloud-water-grass hall (水 水 草堂)
2008 nominated for the first year of the Taiwan Golden Pot Prize competition / participated in a joint exhibition at the Golden Pot Exhibition
2009 participation in the exhibition of contemporary design of tea ceramics
2009 Zhang Gu Zhi solo exhibition in Cloud-water-grass hall (雲 水 草堂)
2012 nominated for the fourth year of the Taiwan Golden Pot Prize competition
2014 nominated for the fifth year of the Taiwan Golden Pot Prize
