UCCA Clay Museum in Yixing

About

Located in the south of the Chinese province of Jiangsu, the city of Yixing is known as the ‘ceramic capital’ and renowned for its production of pottery using purple clay. A work of Kengo Kuma, this museum presents shapes inspired by Shushan Mountain nearby and the traditional dragon kiln, a climbing kiln used for the craft which is long, narrow, and steeply sloping. The sculptural volume is given a ceramic skin. Developed in collaboration with local artisans, the irregular facade has parts enameled with different shades of color, producing varied nuances and slightly rough to the touch. The UCCA Clay Museum’s perforations allow connections to the surrounding factory complex. The roof is held up by a light but strong wooden frame that brings dynamic changes inside.