Huang Chunmao, whose work has been exhibited in the Alfred Ceramic Art Museum and who received his MFA from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University in 2003, is the renowned Chinese ceramic designer behind the recent state banquet hosted by President Xi Jinping for President Donald Trump on May 14 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Huang’s study at Alfred University was originally funded by a generous grant to Alfred University from the Asian Cultural Council, NYC. Following his graduation, Huang, also known as Chunmao Huang, transformed Chinese ceramic design by bridging the gap between the luxury of traditional Chinese craftsmanship and modern efficiency. His later work is defined by "Ceramic Diplomacy," in which his designs serve as the visual centerpieces for China's most significant international events.
Huang's porcelain has been featured at President Xi’s most significant international summits since 2014. He also designed banquet ware for the First Lady of China, Peng Liyuan. In 2018 the Alfred Ceramic Art Museum mounted an exhibition titled Reclaiming Splendor which featured the First Lady’s banquet held in Hangzhou, China, 2016, at a pavilion on famous West Lake. The ware was named West Lake Prosperous Blue Peony and featured a robin’s egg blue glaze said to be the First Lady’s favorite color. There were 35 pieces for each individual place setting.
The banquet ware for the Trump–Xi celebration was named the Baoxiang Yuncai (Treasure Flower and Cloud Color). The design was heavily influenced by the Golden Hall of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where the banquet was held. Every piece was produced in Jingdezhen, China's historic "Porcelain City.” Porcelain ceramic art made in Jingdezhen first arrived in Europe during the 14th century and today the city is legendary in the history of ceramic art.
Of his study at Alfred University Huang has said: “The study at Alfred University is an important experience for me, it gives me a mirror to look at tradition with new perspective…Now, China is supporting renewed interpretation to traditional culture, I am encouraged with this sentiment to prompt Chinese living wisdom and delicacy.”
Appointed to the Ceramic Art Commission of UNESCO, Huang Chunmao is a voice for recognizing excellence in cultural traditions across the world.
His art may be seen in the permanent collection of the Alfred Ceramic Art Museum at Alfred University by appointment. 1-607-871-2421.
Alfred University Professor Emeritus Wayne Higby contributed to this article. Enews thanks Professor Higby for sharing his expertise.
