In the vibrant heart of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, artist Alice Chang is turning history into art! Using centuries-old Ming Dynasty pottery shards recovered from the Wanli shipwreck off Malaysia’s coast, her mosaic-covered sculptures captivate tourists and locals alike. 🎨
The fragments—dating back to the late 16th and early 17th centuries—carry whispers of an era marked by the bustling Silk Road and dramatic maritime conflicts between Portuguese and Dutch forces. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Underwater Heritage Site under its Silk Roads Programme, the shipwreck has yielded around 9,000 pottery shards, each telling its own story.
By ingeniously piecing together these ancient treasures, Chang creates modern masterpieces that bridge the gap between the past and the present. Her works not only spark curiosity about historic global trade but also celebrate Malaysia’s pivotal role as a cultural crossroads. This innovative fusion of art and history offers a fresh take on an age-old narrative, resonating with young art fans and history buffs alike. ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
