Han Xiaohu
Master Ceramic Artist | Yixing, China
Professional Recognitions
Jiangsu Provincial Ceramic Art Notable
Jiangsu Provincial Craft & Fine Arts Notable
Senior Craft Artist (Full Professor Level)
Council Member, Jiangsu Ceramic Art Committee
Member, Jiangsu Association of Craft & Fine Arts
Inheritor of Yixing Junyao Traditional Techniques (Intangible Cultural Heritage)
Visiting Expert for Traditional Ceramic Art, University Ceramic Training Base (Jiangsu)
Member, China Association for Science and Technology (Natural Sciences Division)
Expert Committee Member, Ceramic Design Branch of Jiangsu Industrial Design Institute
Artistic Profile
Born in 1950 in Yixing, Jiangsu, Han Xiaohu—also known by his artistic name Yizhi (一指) and studio name Zhiyi Zhai (指艺斋)—has dedicated over four decades to redefining Yixing ceramic art.
His journey began in 1966 at the Yixing Junyao Craft Factory, where he trained under folk masters Yang Yaosheng and Li Shixun. In 1979, he advanced his studies at the Central Academy of Craft Art (now Tsinghua University Academy of Arts & Design), guided by renowned professors Zhang Zhizhi and Pan Chunfang.
Guided by the principle that “art originates from life, yet transcends it,” Han draws deeply from lived experience and cultural heritage to inform his creative vision. He skillfully merges time-honored techniques with contemporary expression, developing a distinctive style that bridges tradition and innovation.
Artistic Innovation
Han is particularly celebrated for pioneering zisha duihua (purple clay relief painting), a technique that harmoniously integrates the vibrant, sculptural堆花 (duihua) art of Junyao with the refined elegance of Yixing zisha pottery. His works are characterized by their classical yet dynamic presence, intricate craftsmanship, and profound artistic depth—often described as bold yet refined, timeless yet evocative.
Legacy & Influence
Through exhibitions, academic collaborations, and mentorship, Han Xiaohu continues to shape the future of Yixing ceramic arts while preserving its rich heritage. His contributions have elevated the global recognition of Junyao and zisha as integral forms of Chinese cultural expression.
