About Sun Li (孙莉)

Sun Li is a nationally recognized master of traditional Chinese ceramic arts and the founder of the Sun Li Ceramic Art Museum. With over 30 years of hands-on experience, she has played a pivotal role in preserving and advancing the art of Jian ware (Jianzhan), particularly the time-honored craft of Gaiwan (盖碗) ceramics. Her journey began under the guidance of her grandfather Jin Wang and her parents—both respected members of the Jianyang ceramic community.

She pursued advanced studies at institutions including Fujian Normal University, Northeast Normal University, the China Academy of Art, and Tsinghua University’s Academy of Fine Arts. This academic foundation complements her lifelong dedication to ceramic artistry, blending traditional forms with personal innovation.

🏺 “Inheriting a Thousand Years of Culture — Fragrance of Time in Gaiwan Clay”

Specializing in Jianyang Gaiwan techniques, Sun Li blends precision, heritage, and artistic expression in every piece. Her works are celebrated for honoring tradition while introducing subtle innovations that speak to modern aesthetics.

👑 Honors & Titles

• National Representative Inheritor of Intangible Cultural Heritage
• Master of Chinese Ceramic Arts — Fujian Province
• Senior Arts and Crafts Artist & Engineer
• Light Industry Labor Model — National Recognition (2024)
• Master Artist of Fujian Folk Arts
• First National Honor for Traditional Craft Masters (2024)
• Master of Arts and Crafts of Fujian Province
• Top-Level Talent of Fujian Province
• “Ten Thousand Talents” Skilled Labor Awardee — Fujian
• May 1st Labor Medal & Youth May Fourth Medal
• Highly Skilled Artisan & Advanced Technical Artist

🏆 Roles & Professional Recognition

• Founder of Sun Li Ceramic Art Museum
• Leader of the “Sun Li Master Artisan Studio” (recognized by the Fujian Department of Human Resources and Social Security)
• Member of multiple national and provincial arts and crafts committees
• Elected to China Arts and Crafts Society Master Station
• Guest professor at Xiamen University, Southeast University, and others
• Long-time researcher and innovator in Gaiwan kiln techniques

🖼️ Museum & Permanent Collections

Her works are held in the permanent collections of:

• The Great Hall of the People
• National Art Museum of China
• China Arts and Crafts Museum
• China National Museum of Intangible Cultural Heritage
• National Library of China
• Fujian Museum of Art
• Minyue Royal City Museum
• Other provincial and heritage institutions

🎨 Artistic Vision

Sun Li’s philosophy draws from the classical saying: “Blue emerges from indigo, yet surpasses it.” Her work reflects deep respect for tradition and a drive for continual excellence. Her ceramics have been exhibited widely, collected by museums, and honored with numerous awards at both national and provincial levels.