“Chang is being recognized for his commitment to preserving and researching traditional glazes, as well as developing innovative glazing techniques,” an MOC official said. “He also works tirelessly to pass the artistic torch to the younger generation.”
The 83-year-old soldier-turned-ceramist was born in Hunan province, mainland China. He began his apprenticeship at the age of 45 under the late Lin Pao-chia, known as the father of Taiwan ceramics, after working at two U.S. appliance companies and as the manager of a ceramics factory until its closure.
According to the MOC, Chang learned the true essence of ceramics from Lin and is revered for his unique and fascinating Drunken Scarlet—a camouflage glaze giving ceramic works a cracked look—as well as Jun wares, a type of Chinese celadon first created during the Northern Song dynasty (960-1127).
“His eye-catching style requires a comprehensive understanding of clay and precise control of kiln temperature, which allows him to create scarlet hues with smears of green for the Drunken style and complementary blues, reds and purples for Jun wares,” the official said.
In addition, Chang has devoted himself to cultivating new talents and encouraging amateurs by teaching at a Taipei City-based vocational junior college, the former Shih Chien University, for 13 years, and National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology for nine.
His private museum opened this year in New Taipei City’s Sanxia District also helps facilitate idea and experience exchanges among ceramists, the MOC said.
The MOC award is not the first to be bestowed upon Chang. He won the Arts Education Contribution Award from the Ministry of Education in 2005 and was acknowledged as one of 100 exemplary artists during the ROC’s centennial celebrations in 2011.
First presented in 2007, the annual award will be given to Chang at a special ceremony Dec. 5 at the Taipei branch of the National Taiwan Craft Research and Development Institute. (YCH-JG)
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