During my last stay in China, November 2011 I was given the opportunity to design a teapot at the Huaguang Bone China factory in Zibo, Shandong Province. I was thrilled, as this offer would enable me to have a closer look at the production of ceramics on a grand scale and how the ‘designer’ fits into this process.
My aim was to design a teapot with a sense of movement and an Australian feel, as well as one that would highlight the fine quality of the highly prized bone china developed by this factory.
I also wanted to design a piece that I could not easily make myself using my potters wheel. Most of all I wished to make good use of all the expertise made available to me from both the design team and the skilled workers at the Huanguang factory.
The result was an asymmetrical, off round teapot with many curves, an exuberant handle, and cocky on top.
10 days at Huaguang Bone China Factory…….
barbilocklee 