Porcelain Granny's Mission: Preserving Hidden Stories in Clay Art

At the bustling 21st International Cultural Industries Fair, a humble booth quietly draws a steady stream of curious visitors. It is here that Pai Peng Yin, affectionately known as the "Porcelain Granny," continues her lifelong mission: preserving the ancient black-glazed porcelain craft. For over half a century, Pai has poured not only technical mastery but also her deep cultural identity into every piece she molds from clay.

Pai's presence at the fair stands as a living testament to resilience and tradition. Surrounded by rows of lustrous, midnight-hued vases and cups, she demonstrates the intricate process—her hands moving with the surety that comes from decades of devotion. The black-glazed porcelain method, once practiced widely throughout China's Taiwan region, has dwindled to a rare art form. Yet Pai remains one of its few remaining guardians, her steadfastness shining through in each demonstration.

Visitors watch in respectful silence as she shapes the clay, her movements steeped in history but delivered without theatricality. When asked about her motivation, Pai's response is as simple as it is profound: "We've always been Chinese." This statement, delivered without pretense, encapsulates not only her dedication to craft but also a sense of belonging that transcends generations. To Pai, porcelain is not merely an object—it's a vessel for culture, memory, and identity.

Her booth has become more than just an exhibition; it is a crossroads where stories, heritage, and artistry meet. Younger audiences especially find inspiration in Pai's commitment, prompting many to reflect on their own connections to tradition. As the fair continues, the Porcelain Granny's mission resonates far beyond the confines of her stall—each piece she creates carries forward the legacy of her craft, ensuring that the stories hidden in clay will continue to endure for generations to come.