Q&A: A British designer brings modern feel to traditional Chinese crafts

Christopher Jenner's designs, Yixing ceramic collection. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Q: How did you find the Chinese craftsmen to make ceramics for you?

A: I went straight to the internet and contacted a handful of suppliers who seemed best positioned to help me. Based on their response we sent the brief and design information to a couple of suppliers.

It was then necessary to travel to China to meet with them and decide who would be the best partner in this venture.

Q: Did you encounter any problems while finding those craftsmen, say, language problems? Could you tell us more about the whole story?

A: When you approach a project like this you know you are going to face an endless stream of issues. The challenge is to face them in a manner you think would be best for all the parties. You need to remain sensitive to the needs of all those involved in the process, yet aim to achieve your vision. Language is always an issue but with the help of modern technology the gap is closing. We used WeChat thought the project, the instant translate on this app is amazing.

Of course there are also cultural issues, and the issues of tradition. The way I think of the craft is less traditional and more globally orientated, and the way we have applied the traditional techniques is completely new to our partners, so there is an element of risk involved throughout the process.