77 Countries, 1,351 Artworks Showcased…Gyeonggi Ceramic Biennial Closes Successfully

'Earth Makes'. That was the theme of the Gyeonggi Ceramic Biennial, which ran for 45 days. A total of 324,000 visitors attended.

The ceramic biennial, which began on September 18 and ran through November 1, was held at Gunjiam Ceramic Park and Yeoju Ceramic World, drawing crowds. Hosted by Gyeonggi Province and organized by the Korean Ceramic Foundation, this was the 13th edition of the event.

Works from 1,351 artists representing 77 countries were showcased, with 1,423 artists participating in a diverse range of programs ranging from international exhibitions to ceramic experiences.

The event has been praised for reinterpreting clay—a traditional material—from a new perspective and expanding the horizons of ceramic art as contemporary art.

At the International Ceramic Workshop featuring 18 domestic and international artists, studios showcasing the creative process, visitor-participation experiences, and artist talks provided visitors with opportunities to directly observe the artwork creation process.

The event introduced works by Korean ceramic artisans through exhibitions including the 'Master Craftsmen Exhibition' featuring 64 certified Korean ceramic masters, a 'Special Exhibition' where artworks could be purchased, and the 'Beautiful Korean Ceramic Contest'.

Additionally, the biennial organized university student ceramic exhibitions including 'To the Future', 'Ceramic Major University Students' Day', and university student ceramic competitions, providing next-generation ceramic artists with opportunities to experience global ceramic art trends and enhance their creative capabilities.

Programs such as 'Kids Biennial' for children, 'Craft Pojangmacha', and 'Clay Stacking' drew continuous crowds eager to participate.

The 'Visiting Biennial' operated by 25 cities and counties across Gyeonggi Province attracted over 53,200 participants. Through experience programs involving local studios and ceramic and craft artisans, visitors were able to enjoy ceramic culture without visiting the main venue.

Ryu In-kwon, President and CEO of the Korean Ceramic Foundation, said, "This biennial showcased new possibilities in global ceramic art while serving as a cultural and artistic venue where ceramic artisans and citizens of Gyeonggi Province participated and enjoyed together," adding, "We will continue efforts to enable citizens to appreciate ceramic culture in their everyday lives."