An intangible heritage inheritor works at the Yuyaochang (Royal Kiln) National Archaeological Site Park. (WEI XIAOHAO / CHINA DAILY)
Known as China's ceramic capital, Jingdezhen in Jiangxi province with its centuries-old kilns, dimly lit workshops and master craftsmen, evokes memories of ancient times.
However, it's now blending traditional crafts with automated production and innovative designs, which has turned the city into a modern porcelain powerhouse.
Traditional production areas have been upgraded into industrial zones or venues for ceramic art.
A few old kilns and workshops have been turned into art museums.
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A worker at the Xianyunju company hand paints a porcelain jar. (WEI XIAOHAO / CHINA DAILY)
Sales methods have been modernized, with livestreams used to directly sell porcelain online from workshops or night markets.
The city has also become a magnet for foreign ceramic artists. Ryan LaBar came to Jingdezhen five years ago from the United States. He said he draws inspiration for his works from talking with local artists as well as the artistic ambience of the city which inspires creativity.
A master potter at the Yuyaochang National Archaeological Site Park where porcelain is made by hand. (WEI XIAOHAO / CHINA DAILY)
Employees of Jingdezhen Xianyunju Porcelain Culture in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province, use computers to design patterns for chinaware in August. (WEI XIAOHAO / CHINA DAILY)
An employee cleans dishes at a modern ceramic factory in Jingdezhen. (WEI XIAOHAO / CHINA DAILY)
A saleswoman promotes chinaware via livestreaming from the city. (WEI XIAOHAO/CHINA DAILY)
A craftswoman demonstrates traditional porcelain painting at the Yuyaochang National Archaeological Site Park in Jingdezhen. (WEI XIAOHAO / CHINA DAILY)
A visitor inspects porcelain tea cups at a night market in Jingdezhen. (WEI XIAOHAO / CHINA DAILY)
A tourist visits the Jingdezhen Xianyunju Porcelain Culture showroom. (WEI XIAOHAO / CHINA DAILY)