Starting from the countryside,
Sourcing materials locally,
Crafted with simplicity and authenticity,
Using wood-firing as a medium,
Presenting objects that embody both “beauty” and “function” in a humble and natural way for their users.
— Wang Lihong (Yiyi)
About Yiyi
At first glance, Yiyi’s ceramic works might surprise you. Their rugged, unpolished aesthetic exudes a boldness that challenges traditional notions of feminine artistry. Yet behind these creations lies Yiyi, a graceful and serene woman whose work reflects a deep, authentic connection to her surroundings and heritage.
Born in the picturesque village of Guhuan Huaxiang in Lishui, Zhejiang—a place renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty—Yiyi embodies the poetic essence of a “southern beauty dwelling in a quiet valley,” as described in ancient Chinese literature. This unique harmony of serenity and strength is evident in her art.
Yiyi graduated in 2015 from Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, specialising in ceramic arts. After completing her studies, she returned to her hometown to establish the Guiran Ceramic Studio, a creative space dedicated to her craft. In 2019, her husband joined her full-time in the studio, creating a dynamic partnership in their ceramic artistry. Together, they launched Yiyi’s personal brand, Gubu Kiln, in 2020, focusing on crafting unique, meaningful objects and steadily developing a distinct artistic style.
A pivotal moment came in 2021 when Yiyi rented a serene, secluded house with a courtyard on three sides. There, she built a wood-fired kiln and began cultivating a small farm, planting vegetables with her own hands. Balancing creation with simple, mindful living, she embraced her ideal lifestyle—a journey of creativity, sustainability, and personal fulfilment.
Despite the modest financial rewards, Yiyi finds profound happiness and gratitude in her chosen path. She remains steadfast in her commitment to ceramics, aiming to refine her craft and bring more beauty into the everyday. As she looks to the future, Yiyi aspires to elevate her creations while finding joy and meaning in life’s simplicity.
Yiyi’s work is not just about ceramics; it’s about merging art and life, creating vessels that resonate with a sense of place, purpose, and poetry.
Explore Yiyi’s Creations
Discover Yiyi’s artistry through her standout pieces, including Yushu’s favourites featured on our tea tasting table: the Formless Bodhidharma Gaiwan and the Square Tea Tray, now back in stock. Along with her latest creation, the Rust-Texture Gongdaobei, a stunning addition to her growing collection of functional art.
Yiyi Formless Bodhidharma Gaiwan
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Experience the artistry of traditional craftsmanship with the Yiyi Formless Bodhidharma Rust-Texture Gaiwan. Made from premium Chuzhou black stoneware clay, this piece is carefully hand-pinched. The surface features a rust-like texture, achieved through slip decoration techniques. Fired in an oxidation atmosphere at 1230°C, this gaiwan is both functional and visually captivating. Ideal for brewing black teas.
Yiyi Square Tea Tray
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Crafted from Chuzhou black stoneware clay, the Yiyi Square Tea Tray embodies traditional craftsmanship with a modern touch. Formed using slab construction and assembled into a sleek square design, it undergoes oxidation firing at 1230°C for durability and character. A favourite at Yushu, this tea tray graces our tea tasting table at Yushu London with its elegance and functionality.
Yiyi Rust-Texture Gongdaobei
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This elegant Gongdaobei (fairness pitcher) is crafted from Chuzhou black stoneware clay using traditional hand-pinched forming techniques. The surface is adorned with a distinctive rust-like texture, achieved through slip decoration. Fired in an oxidation atmosphere at 1230°C using electric firing, this gongdaobei makes an excellent addition to any tea set.