The Craft of Couture: Guo Pei and Master Tan Guanghui
Explore how the renowned -artisans are reimagining Chinese porcelain for the UBS Art Studio at Art Basel Hong Kong 2025
Renowned fashion designer Guo Pei and esteemed National-level Inheritor of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Guangcai, Master Tan Guanghui, combine their crafts to co-create a breathtaking synthesis of tradition and modernity, offering a powerful reminder of the artistry that transcends time and borders.
By merging the traditional craft of Guangcai porcelain with haute couture, their co-created work titled ‘Glazed Splendor’ is a stunning gold-themed gown that features over 6,000 hand-painted Guangcai porcelain tiles, each painstakingly crafted over several rounds of revisions to ensure unparalleled precision.
This gown is more than just a piece of fashion…It’s a dialogue between cultures, a fusion of heritage and future vision.
Commissioned by UBS in collaboration with the K11 Craft & Guild Foundation, the creation will be unveiled at the UBS Art Studio during Art Basel Hong Kong 2025. This groundbreaking piece also celebrates 75 years of Swiss-Chinese relations, blending the floral motifs of peonies which symbolize China and the edelweiss well associated with Switzerland.
Known for her luxurious and narrative-driven designs, such as the iconic “Magnificent Gold” dress worn by Rihanna at the 2015 Met Gala, Guo Pei’s craft seamlessly weaves cultural heritage into a contemporary exploration of Chinese history. Her creations are characterized by meticulous attention to detail, utilizing traditional craftmanship methods to redefine conventional boundaries.
Master Tan Guanghui, a revered expert in the -traditional craft of Guangcai (Canton porcelain), brings his exceptional mastery to this collaboration. Passed down through generations, his know-how breathes life into the new application, offering a reimagination of Guangcai.
The challenge was to create something both timeless and modern—while staying true to the delicate craftsmanship that defines Guangcai.
Together, this collaboration exemplifies the power of partnership, demonstrating how two visionary artisans can come together to create something truly spectacular. By blending their individual crafts, Guo Pei and Master Tan Guanghui push the boundaries of traditional artistry, embodying the spirit of innovation.
Visitors to the UBS Art Studio can also get hands on with “Guangcai Refreshed”, a bespoke activity that reimagines the traditional craft through watercolor and papercraft. Decorate your own paper vase, taking inspiration from the motifs and colors featured upon the objects displayed in the booth.
