About the biennale
A shared form, an open conversation
A simple idea
Founded in Shanghai in 2006, the International Modern Teapot Art Biennale began with a simple belief. That an object shared by cultures around the world can become a vessel for artistic expression and human connection.
From Shanghai to the world
Over the years, the biennale has brought together artists from more than 100 countries to explore the meeting points between tradition and innovation, function and sculpture, and cultural identity and universal experience.
Since 2006
What the biennale explores
Form
The teapot as a living archetype, where function can become sculpture and a familiar form can carry the spirit of its time.
Material
Clay remains at the heart of the biennale, while diverse materials and artistic approaches continue to expand the possibilities of teapot art.
Dialogue
An ongoing exchange between East and West, heritage and imagination, the individual artist and the wider world.
Founding vision
The biennale grew from the vision of founder and Chinese Arts and Crafts Master Ge Jun, supported by Anna Zhang and the Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum. Together, they established a platform for artists to exchange ideas, encounter different traditions, and create work reflecting their time.
From its beginnings in Shanghai, the biennale has moved throughout China while continuing to connect people through creativity and carry an ancient craft into contemporary life.