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[Open MUJI] Appreciation of Earthenware

Appreciation of Earthenware

 

11 January — 10 February 2019
Opening Hours | 10:00 — 22:00
Venue | Open MUJI, MUJI Plaza Singapura (Free Entry)

Exhibition supported by Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle

 

Pottery is one of human’s oldest handicraft.

 

Since the history of mankind, natural materials unique to each region play a part in forming the roots of cultural practices and lifestyles. In this exploration of pottery, join us to uncover the heart and soul of different regions, expressed in the art and facets of ceramic work. Through this exhibition, we introduce the beauty of MUJI’s Japanese porcelain, and the discovery of a part of Singapore’s diminishing local heritage through a partnered showcase with Thow Kwang Pottery.

 

Japanese Pottery

 

With a rich history of pottery making, Japan is famous for its wide array of ceramics and a profound food culture. Different prefectures in Japan have varied landscape, together with its unique craftsmanship, the pottery and porcelain products from different areas of Japan have their own characteristics, natural colour and texture. Japanese families love using porcelain tableware, not only to keep up with their cultural heritage, but also to bring extra elegance to home-dining.

 

 

The Last Standing Dragon

On our little red dot, there are not many we could call our own heritage. The Dragon Kiln (龙窑) is an icon of local Teochew and Chinese heritage. Built in 1940, Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle’s Dragon Kiln is presently the only and oldest surviving brick-built kilns in Singapore that is based on a traditional Chinese design which dates back to thousands of years ago.

 

The Dragon Kilns were found mainly in the west due to an abundance of white clay suitable for pottery making. Pottery was once a trade that were closely intertwined with the everyday lives of Singaporean and was first introduced by the migrants from China. Pottery like latex cup, orchid pots were made to cater to the demand from industries such as rubber plantation and nurseries in the early years (1960s – 1970s). As the number of rubber plantations dwindled, many kilns had since lost their relevance and was forced to close or change trade.

 

At present, the Dragon Kiln is now a cultural icon and ground for educating the younger generations on traditions, heritage and Chinese culture, particularly that of the Teochew dialect group. For a group of full time and hobbyist-potters from various professions, the Thow Kwang dragon kiln is also a sanctuary for rekindling the art of wood-fired pottery, re-connecting to our roots and immigrant history, and experimentation with clay. 


 

MUJI Pottery Workshop: Make your own Chopstick Stand

MUJI Plaza Singapura, Open MUJI 
$30/pax | 90 minutes

25 – 26 January 2019

 

Learn more about Singapore’s last dragon kiln, the process of pottery making and get hands-on with handbuilding technique to mould and create your own chopstick stand through a 90 minutes workshop. 

The workshop will be personally led by Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle’s third generation potter – Ms Stella Tan. A passionate pottery lover who believes pottery industry is more than just about mass producing wares or firing the kiln.

 

Click link for ticket purchase.