Under the glow of dawn, Jingdezhen in Jiangxi Province in the Chinese mainland came alive as mayors from 15 of the world's most renowned ceramic capitals stepped off their buses into a city that has sculpted porcelain for over a millennium. From Turkey's Iznik to Italy's Faenza, these leaders joined the Global Mayors Dialogue to explore how tradition and innovation can breathe new life into historic towns.
In workshops and kiln yards across Jingdezhen, delegates shared insights on preserving ancestral techniques while embracing sustainable practices. Mayor delegates toured studios where young artists use digital tools like 3D printing and augmented reality to reimagine classic forms, proving that centuries-old clay can spark modern creativity.
The conversations went beyond craftsmanship. One attendee highlighted that ceramics carry our stories, emphasizing how every glaze and mold connects communities across continents.
For business and tech enthusiasts, the event showcased emerging startups blending eco-friendly kilns with smart manufacturing. Thought leaders and changemakers examined how art can foster social cohesion and sustainable development, while travelers and digital nomads discovered new reasons to add Jingdezhen to their global itinerary.
As the dialogue concluded, it was clear that Jingdezhen's secret isn't just its clay but its capacity to unite cultures through a shared language of fire and form. With each handcrafted piece, the porcelain capital continues writing its thousand-year story, carving fresh paths for cities worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
