Fusing and Freezing: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Reviving Traditional Craftsmanship with Contemporary Design Elements

The inspiration behind 'Fusing and Freezing' lies in the traditional porcelain embedding technique, a state-level non-material cultural heritage in the Chaoshan area of Guangdong Province, China. This ancient art form involves gluing ceramic chips together with cement to create vivid, brilliant images of auspicious animals and plants for building decoration. The designers at Dongguan GAFA C&C Institute aimed to extend this traditional art into modern design, symbolizing the fusion of metal in fire and the freezing of time in cement.

What sets 'Fusing and Freezing' apart from other designs is its unique combination of abstract organic cement forms with geometric metal casting. This contrast signifies the uncertainty of traditional handicraft and the precision of modern industrial manufacturing. The cement parts are accessorized with laser-cut copper, a nod to the traditional porcelain craft of "floating embedding". The result is a modern interpretation of traditional craft, characterized by its contemporary form, material, and texture.

The design series is realized using cement, copper inlaying, and cast copper plated with 18K gold. The necklace measures 450mm-120mm-80mm, the ring 60mm-30mm-30mm, and the hand ornament 80mm-40mm-40mm. The designs are tagged as art jewelry, tradition, necklace, ring, hand ornament, handmade, and cement, reflecting their unique blend of traditional and modern elements.

The 'Fusing and Freezing' series offers wearers a unique experience, allowing them to feel the traditional culture while wearing these artistic and challenging products. The project, which started in February 2018 and finished in June 2018 in Guangzhou, China, was exhibited at the Art Museum of Guangzhou Academy of Fine Art in July 2018 and the Fifth Intangible Heritage Fair in September 2018 in Shandong Province, China.

The design series is not just a testament to Dongguan GAFA C&C Institute's innovative approach but also a tribute to traditional Chinese craftsmanship. The project faced several challenges, including understanding the characteristics of traditional craft and material, conducting numerous technology tests to determine the best way of showcasing these characteristics, and finding the perfect balance between different materials. Despite these hurdles, the design team, led by Mingshuai Sun, successfully created a design series that beautifully merges tradition and modernity.

'Fusing and Freezing' was recognized for its remarkable design and innovation, winning the Silver A' Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design Award in 2019. This prestigious award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The award is a testament to the design's strong technical characteristics, splendid artistic skill, and its ability to evoke positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.