Bao Li'an
鲍利安
Titles & Honors
Jiangsu Provincial Ceramic Art Master (2nd batch, 2016)
Jiangsu Provincial Arts and Crafts Master (6th batch, 2016)
Senior Professional-Grade Craft Artist (Zhenggaoji Gongyi Meishushi)
Member of China Ceramic Industry Association
Member of Jiangsu Provincial Ceramic Art Committee
Member of Jiangsu Provincial Arts and Crafts Society
Member of China National Arts and Crafts Society
Municipal-Level Representative Inheritor of Wuxi Intangible Cultural Heritage
Biography
Born in Yixing in 1959, Bao Li'an began his career in purple clay (zisha) ceramic art and design in 1978, studying under Gao Lijun 高丽君 , Cao Wanfen 曹婉芬, and Pan Pingchi 潘持平. He later received further guidance from the legendary master Gu Jingzhou.
Artistic Philosophy
His creations cover a broad range of themes and are rooted in the principle of “artistic virtue” (yide). He pursues a deep understanding of zisha art from both “inside the teapot” (technical/craft aspects) and “outside the teapot” (cultural and spiritual dimensions). His works honor historical traditions while expressing a contemporary sensibility; they emphasize both external form and inner spirit, and balance individual style with universal aesthetic values.
In practice, he focuses on the integration of line and form, the harmony of square and round, and the expression of spirit and vitality. His pieces are rich in visual imagery and leave a lasting impression. Over decades of exploration, he has developed a distinctive personal style: dignified yet generous, simple yet elegant, combining strength with refinement, and embodying both inner cultivation and outward grace.
Philosophy & Social Responsibility
Bao believes that “the essence of art comes from life, and the achievement of an artist rests on artistic virtue.” He actively participates in charity auctions, exhibitions, and donations, contributing to society through his craft.
Awards & Patents
National-level gold awards: 6
National-level silver awards: 3
National-level bronze awards: 4
Provincial-level gold awards: 3
Provincial-level silver awards: 2
Provincial-level bronze awards: 3
National design patents: 4
Institutional Collections
His works are collected by major institutions, including the Zhongnanhai Ziguang Pavilion, Tianjin Museum, and Nanjing Museum (total of 5 institutional collections).
Publications
He has published two papers in national-level journals and three papers in provincial-level journals (including professional websites). He also contributed to the compilation of the book Taoyuan Duoying (A Collection of Ceramic Masterpieces).
International Exhibitions & Exchanges
He has been invited to the United States and South Korea for ceramic art exchanges, and in 2005 he held a solo purple clay art exhibition in Japan.
written by siyutao art team
