Jingdezhen has been the global epicenter of porcelain for 1,700 years. Today, that legacy is carried by artisans like Sun Lixin, a fourth-generation inheritor of the historic Sun Kiln.

Starting his apprenticeship at 13, Sun navigated the transition from state-run porcelain production to the modern studio era. His practice is defined by the "five pillars" of ceramic making: throwing, trimming, painting, glazing and firing. "If you respect the clay," Sun observes, "it will listen to you." As the city evolves into a hub of contemporary art, Sun remains a guardian of traditional craftsmanship, training the next generation to ensure this lineage remains a living, breathing practice.