Bruce Lee kicks back at the Expo
0 
The director of 1506 Creative City, Qiu Dalin, says that if visitors don't know the history and background of Foshan, then they cannot truly interpret the sculptures.
"The city is one of the birthplaces of China's ceramics and is also the largest ceramic production area in the world," he said.
Porcelain from Foshan can be seen virtually everywhere in the world.
"But many people don't realize the significance of Foshan. I'm glad this is the first time Foshan ceramics and culture are presented in the spotlight of the World Expo."
Artist Shu Yong says he is connected to Foshan because one of his ceramic works "Flower of Life" was made in Foshan.
"At that time, I searched almost all the kilns in the country but still could not make it. By accident, and with help of Qiu Dalin, I completed the work in Nanfeng Ancient Kiln in Foshan."
He said he began to understand Foshan that once represented a quarter of the world's ceramic production, and he learned its many stories.
So when he thought of a work about Foshan, he thought of Bruce Lee to convey the message.
The task was difficult, involving more than 200 people working for half a year, getting up at 8am and working until 2 or 3am, or even around the clock, said Shu.
"Sometimes I felt like an abusive contractor, but actually I am an artist. Sometimes I felt very confused because I didn't want to be that harsh, but I had to get the work done."
Shu is proud that the statues attract so much attention at the Expo.
"They resonate with the viewers," he said.
"We aim to make exactly 1,506 Bruce Lee sculptures because Nanfang Ancient Kiln in Foshan was built in 1506."
He likes to imagine a touring exhibition of Bruce Lees made in Foshan.
"It would be fascinating to see a cluster of Bruce Lees in front of the White House or the British Museum - both housing Foshan ceramics, a hidden link between these iconic buildings," he said.
 |
| Photo taken on Aug. 21, 2010 shows fans of legendary Kungfu movie star Bruce Lee imitate their idol's actions in the World Expo Park in Shanghai, east China. |
Go to Forum >>0 Comments