New cultural center revives ancient pottery craft

Qianzhitao Cultural Center opened in Qiantao township, Huaxi district, Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province, on April 1.

Tourists appreciate pottery at Qianzhitao Cultural Center. [Photo/Guiyang Daily]

Built by Wu Hong, an inheritor of intangible cultural heritage, the center covers over 700 square meters and features exhibition zones for cultural creative products, finished pottery, and collections. It currently houses more than 300 ancient pottery treasures, including blue-and-white Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) jars.

Visitors can enjoy an immersive experience of ancient pottery-making techniques and create their own unique ceramic pieces by hand.

The center also offers coffee and aromatic tea, local agricultural specialties, and cultural creative products.

Qiantao township has a long history of pottery culture. However, with the acceleration of industrialization, its traditional pottery industry declined, and the craft 's inheritance and development once faced significant challenges.

Wu Hong has continued to visit veteran artisans, consult relevant historical materials, and practice the craft himself, striving to restore authentic, ancient methods.

"Rather than just a collector or a producer, I prefer to see myself as a guardian and a transmitter of the craft," Wu said. "By preserving the ancient techniques and the true essence of Qiantao pottery, I hope this old craft will not be forgotten. "