Monthly Archives: July 2023

1. Overview of Wood Mosaics

A wooden mosaic is a decorative material of small pieces arranged to form various patterns or designs. It is commonly used for decorating interior walls, floors, and furniture, adding a natural and warm atmosphere.

2. Characteristics of Wood Materials

1) Natural Beauty

Wooden mosaics preserve wood's natural texture and color, giving a space a natural and cozy vibe.

2) Uniqueness

Due to the use of small wooden pieces, wooden mosaic allows for various combinations and arrangements, creating unique patterns and designs.

3) Versatility

Wooden mosaics can be cut, assembled, and customized according to design requirements, adapting to different spatial needs with high flexibility.

4) Environmental Friendliness

Made from natural wood, wooden mosaics are free from harmful substances and meet environmental requirements.

5) Durability

With proper treatment and maintenance, wooden mosaics exhibit good durability and resistance to wear, making them suitable for long-term use.

6) Easy Maintenance

The surface of a wooden mosaic is typically treated to be waterproof and resistant to stains, making it easy to clean and maintain.

7) Warm and Comfortable

Wooden mosaic creates a natural and warm ambiance, creating a cozy and pleasant living environment.

3. Wood Material Installation Process

The construction process of the wooden mosaics is as follows:

1. Preparation

Clean the making area, ensuring a smooth, dry, and clean. Perform necessary waterproofing treatment.

2. Design Planning

Based on the design requirements and spatial considerations, determine the style, color, and layout of the wooden mosaic.

3. Measurement and Cutting

Measure the dimensions of the construction area according to the design plan. Use appropriate tools to cut the wooden mosaic into the desired sizes and shapes.

4. Adhesive Application and Installation

Apply adhesive to the back of the wooden mosaic and adhere it to the prepared and treated base surface.

5. Arrangement and Assembly

Arrange and assemble the wooden mosaic pieces of different colors and shapes according to the design plan, ensuring a cohesive and visually pleasing pattern.

6. Tapping and Compacting

Gently tap the wooden mosaic with a rubber mallet or wooden hammer to ensure full contact with the adhesive and the base surface, ensuring a level and stable installation.

7. Grouting

After the wooden mosaic is fully installed, use specific grout to fill in the gaps between the pieces, ensuring overall aesthetics and waterproof performance.

8. Polishing and Cleaning

After the grout has dried, use sandpaper or a polishing tool to smooth the surface of the wooden mosaic, making it more polished and even. Finally, clean the construction area to ensure the wooden mosaic is left clean and tidy.

4. Wood Material Price

Wooden mosaics generally range from US$22.38 to 44.76 per square meter (for reference only). The price of wooden mosaics is influenced by various factors, including material, quality, size, supplier, and location.

Application Examples

Below are exquisite wooden mosaic designs.

SOA Arts – 3D Wood Wall Art for Hotels, Corporates, and More

What does SOA Arts mean? Our company is named save on art(SOA ARTS), because we hope that everyone who likes art can own our works of art at a good price. We want to extend beautiful things to different corners as far as possible.

At the same time, save on art also call on people not to throw away the existing artworks easily. You can use these artworks in another scene, or do some DIY to make ; the artworks glow with new luster and energy.

At SOA Arts, we know how hard it can be to find the large ceramic artwork you’re looking for. Fortunately, we have over 10 years of experience in making our clients’ interior design dreams a reality.

As a leading Chinese factory, we have everything we need to source, curate, commission, and produce exactly what you’re looking for. Get in touch and we’ll be happy to get the ball rolling.

Start your art project commissions today.

With several thousand years of development, ceramic art has stood the test of time in the river of history. At the same time, it is a symbol of our country in the eyes of the world. But how much do you know about ceramic art? Why are so many people willing to display and decorate their homes with ceramic art pieces? Today, let’s explore together!

Ceramics, as an ancient and precious art form, indeed carries thousands of years of history and culture. With its unique material characteristics and exquisite craftsmanship, it bestows people with a boundless sense of beauty and creativity. Whether it’s ancient pottery, Chinese porcelain, or modern ceramic artworks, they all showcase the charm and elegance of ceramics.

As a material, ceramics possess high hardness, wear resistance, and high-temperature resistance, making it an ideal medium for artistic creation. From ancient Egyptian pottery and Greek ceramics to Song Dynasty celadon and Ming Dynasty Jingdezhen porcelain in China, ceramic works from different periods and regions display various styles and aesthetic concepts. These works convey the creators’ understanding of life and the expression of emotions through exquisite craftsmanship and unique forms. Clay is malleable when in contact with water, can be sculpted when slightly dry and can be polished when completely dry.

01 What Are Ceramics?

In simple terms, vessels made of fired clay are called pottery, and vessels made of porcelain clay are called porcelain. Ceramics, on the other hand, is a general term for pottery, stoneware, and porcelain. Any object made from these two different types of clay, namely earthenware clay and porcelain clay, through processes such as preparation, shaping, drying, and firing, can be referred to as ceramics. Clay fired at 800℃ can become pottery, while firing at 1200℃ results in vitrification, making it porcelain.

02 Development of Ceramics

Initial Development

Ceramics originated in the Neolithic Age. During this period of relatively low productivity, people gradually explored and developed primitive pottery. Primitive individuals used fire to bake clay and create primitive pottery. At that time, pottery was primarily practical, used for holding water, cooking, and other household purposes. There was a wide variety of styles to meet different needs and had practicality as its central focus.

During the Spring and Autumn period and the Warring States period, pottery was mainly made from clay and commonly had shapes like jars and pots, primarily used in people's daily lives. The patterns and designs were relatively simple and the forms were ordinary, with practicality still being the main consideration. In later periods, some more exquisite pottery was used as burial objects accompanying the deceased.

During the Three Kingdoms and the Jin Dynasty, porcelain experienced rapid development due to the prolonged period of warfare in northern China. As a result, many people migrated southwards, bringing with them advanced production techniques that fueled the development of the southern ceramic industry. The emergence of numerous porcelain kilns also symbolized the era of great expansion in the Chinese ceramics industry. The kilns of this period inherited the characteristics of Eastern Han ceramics, featuring simple and plain decorations.

The rapid economic development in the later period further propelled the development of ceramics. Besides the improvement in quality, the decorative patterns became more exquisite, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of ceramics.

Peak Period

The Tang Dynasty was a pinnacle of economic development during China's feudal era. The country was open to foreign influences, attracting a large number of foreign merchants engaged in trade and commerce in Tang China. This period also witnessed the peak of porcelain development. A distinctive pattern called "Southern Qing and Northern White" emerged during this time. Tang Dynasty ceramics were characterized by their majestic and robust style, rich and vibrant colors, and a wide range of designs. The colors used were relatively cool, exuding a simple beauty. Additionally, the Tang Sancai, known for its three primary shades of yellow, green, and white, became prevalent during this era, hence its name "Tang Sancai." The Tang ceramics gained popularity and were highly favored by many countries at that time.

Song Dynasty was a prosperous era of economic development, with the rise of the urban middle class. The increased income and purchasing power of the urban middle class also promoted the development of ceramics. During this period, ceramics for the ordinary citizens mainly were simple and practical, emphasizing functionality. However, in the imperial courts and among the nobility, ceramics were more luxurious and meticulously crafted.

In the Yuan Dynasty, the most representative ceramics were blue and white porcelain. Yuan Dynasty blue and white porcelain featured full compositions, predominantly white backgrounds, and exquisite blue patterns painted on the ceramic body. The designs were diverse and inspired by various aspects of life. Blue and white porcelain exuded an elegant and serene feeling, and the richness of its patterns added layers of meaning, rendering it in high demand in both domestic and international markets.

During the Ming and Qing dynasties, ceramics experienced an unprecedented prosperity with vibrant colors. Under the guidance of rulers, ceramics went through thousands of years of continuous development. This period can be considered the pinnacle of ceramic art, featuring rich content and exquisite craftsmanship. The main types of ceramics during this time were celadon and polychrome porcelain.

03 Porcelain Capital - Jingdezhen

Jingdezhen is a world-renowned porcelain capital, with the beginning of ceramic production dating back to around the 1st century AD, during the Eastern Han Dynasty. During the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Jingdezhen was originally called Xinping Town, and it was not until the reign of Emperor Zhenzong of the Northern Song Dynasty that it was renamed Jingdezhen. Jingdezhen porcelain is famous for its blanc de Chine, also known as pure white porcelain. A distinctive characteristic is the appearance of a faint blue hue within the white porcelain, giving it the name "qing (a shade of blue) beneath the glaze." During the Song and Yuan dynasties, Jingdezhen also produced a type of porcelain with a jade-like blue and white appearance, commonly known as "yingqing" (shadowy blue).

04 Development of Western Porcelain

In the late 15th and early 16th centuries, Chinese porcelain began to appear in the European market, which inspired Western potters to venture into porcelain production. European factories initially started by imitating Chinese porcelain techniques and then gradually attempted to develop their own glazes and styles. Through efforts and innovation, European porcelain gradually moved away from the "Chinese style" and incorporated cultural characteristics of Western countries. This eventually led to the creation of brand new porcelain with a distinctive European artistic decorative style.

05 Modern Ceramics

Ceramic art is often referred to as modern ceramic design, which embodies the corresponding modern design culture and the characteristics of modern ceramics. Influenced by contemporary trends, ceramic artists often conduct comprehensive analysis during the process, aiming to understand the current market and people's aesthetic needs. With the improvement of people's living standards and cultural awareness, modern ceramics continue to develop a trend of diversity that adapts to modern advancements. At the same time, they become more closely integrated into daily life and meet the rational needs of everyday urban living. Nowadays, ceramic art has indeed become an art of living.

In modern times, ceramics have become a common household decoration, playing a significant role in home décor. The combination of porcelain and culture represents the fusion of art and life. Ceramic home ornaments feature simple and minimalist designs, providing a visually pleasing experience. These products possess a modern personality, creating a unique visual impact while adding warmth to the space. They also reflect refined taste and style.

And now, ceramic art continues to innovate and explore new possibilities, showcasing a wide range of artistic expressions. Artists combine ceramics with modern technology and innovative design concepts, creating novel and unique works that blend ceramics with contemporary art. For example, ceramic sculptures, ceramic installations, ceramic paintings, and other forms of ceramic art not only demonstrate the characteristics of ceramics as a material but also break through traditional aesthetic norms.

At the same time, ceramics play an essential role in modern life. Ceramic products are widely used in various fields, including architectural decorations, household items, and tableware. Whether it is large-scale architectural ceramic decorations or delicate handmade ceramic vessels, they add an element of elegance and artistic flair to everyday life.

Therefore, whether it is traditional ceramic art or innovative modern ceramic works, they allow people to appreciate the timeless charm of ceramics. Ceramics are not just material; they represent a cultural heritage and a form of artistic expression. Through continuous innovation, ceramic art will continue demonstrating its elegance and uniqueness.

SOA Arts - Customized Ceramic Ornaments for Your Space

SOA Arts has been specializing in art customization for 12 years, with a range of services including art reproduction, art customization, landscape sculpture, ceramic artworks, and art projects. With a focus on "customer-oriented, customized art experiences," they have received unanimous praise from a wide range of clients.

SOA Arts - Bringing art to life with exceptional craftsmanship, keeping art close to you.

Last year's blockbuster "Everything Everywhere All at Once" proved its excellence again today, sweeping the Oscars, winning seven awards for best picture, best actress, best director, best supporting actress, best-supporting actor, best original screenplay and best editing. Those who have seen this film will be shocked by its dazzling visual effects, and in keeping with the style of the film, its official poster will certainly occupy your eye. The picture elements are complex but orderly, the style is gorgeous and delicate and the color is diverse, and the theme of "multiverse" can be got at a glance. So fits the movie poster from a Chinese-American artist - James Jean.

James Jean

2001 Graduated from the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York

He has received seven Eisner Awards and three Harvey Awards

Film

This isn't the first time that Jams Jean's poster has received attention - the poster for the Oscar-winning film The Shape of Water is also his work, created using charcoal.

For Blade Runner 2049, he didn't even see the movie, and used Procreate alone to create a poster like this, distilling some of the film's key ideas into a single image and blending them together.

For the film, Mother!. Hidden in the painted poster are details similar to "Easter eggs".

Film posters were not where James first made his name; it was in comics that he first became famous.

Comic

A former DC and Marvel cover artist and award-winning illustrator living in Los Angeles, Jean graduated from the School of Visual Arts in New York City in 2001, winning seven Eisner Awards (the Oscars of the comic book industry), two Harvey Awards, two gold MEDALS and a silver medal from the Los Angeles Society of Illustrators, for outstanding cover painting. And a gold medal from the New York Society of Illustrators.

He has also contributed to many national and international publications. Comic fans are best known for being the cover artist on Vertigo Comics' long-running fantasy series Fables, as well as some DC Comics superhero titles (including Batwoman and Arrow).

These works, both commercial and artistic, are widely loved by the industry, but they have not fully demonstrated his personal style, laying the foundation for his later mythological temperament and East-West combination of techniques.

Painting

His paintings outside of comics combine elements of the East and the West, wondering in the romantic and surreal fantasy works, unique among contemporary artists.

His style combines traditional Chinese scroll painting, Japanese woodcuts and Renaissance portraiture into an American comic style.

Rich and bright colors in the work, but most of the scenes are in a dark and mysterious atmosphere, which always conveys a sad emotion for the viewer.

His extensive use of art Nouveau elements can also be seen in many of his paintings, twisting flowing curves and meticulous brushwork.

According to incomplete statistics, James Jean is currently the world's best-selling artist after Takashi Murakami.

Fashion

James Jean's cross-border collaboration with Prada was an essential experience for him to become a darling of the trendsetting art scene.

Not only that, he also designed the Chinese Year of the Monkey limited headphones for BEATS:

In partnership with skateboard brand The Hundreds:

Working with APPLE iPad:

Make his ideas into jewelry derivatives:

He has also painted covers for VOGUE, Time Magazine, The New York Times, Rolling Stone, ESPN, PLAYBOY and more:

Music

In music, Linkin Park's "The Hunting Party", Talib Kweli's "Prisoner of Conscious" and other album covers and merchandise are by James Jean.

Cover and manuscript of The Hunting Party

For his work "Seven Phases" for BTS:

Sculpture

Instead of his colorful paintings, James Jean creates his own sculptures in clean and simple colors, giving a quiet, plain, Zen aesthetics.

Maze

The high-profile "Slingshot" is also one of the most popular collections.

NFT

Restless and borderless, he is also involved in a hot art medium: NFT.

He collaborated with animation director Zachary Corzine and record producer Nosaj Thing to create the NFT production Woodcutter Awakening, which sold for 18ETH ($54,000).

In collaboration with digital art platform Outland, Jean has launched a new hand-drawn digital artwork called Fragments, which combines visual elements such as clouds, plants, flowers, flames, animals, and planets, and uses psychedelic colors to extract individual characters under the name Fragments.

For Jean, the foundation of all his work is painting, there is no division between tradition and digital, just creating the most effective images and interesting expressions.

***

It is difficult for us to judge the height of an artist from a single perspective. However, if he can attract attention in multiple dimensions of his work and still maintain an excellent degree of commercialization, he must have an unusual understanding of art.

James Jean's works are like opening the door to people's subconscious and fantasy, moving everywhere, mysterious and strange, as if walking on the critical point of desire.

Through imaginative works, constantly create their own understanding, using different visual language to outline the strange world.

This is James Jean, an artist who cannot be defined by identity, a prodigy who never stops crossover.

SOA Arts – Custom Art Prints for Hotels, Corporates, and More

What does SOA Arts mean? Our company is named save on art(SOA ARTS), because we hope that everyone who likes art can own our works of art at a good price. We want to extend beautiful things to different corners as far as possible.

At the same time, save on art also call on people not to throw away the existing artworks easily. You can use these artworks in another scene, or do some DIY to make ; the artworks glow with new luster and energy.

At SOA Arts, we know how hard it can be to find the large ceramic artwork you’re looking for. Fortunately, we have over 10 years of experience in making our clients’ interior design dreams a reality.

As a leading Chinese factory, we have everything we need to source, curate, commission, and produce exactly what you’re looking for. Get in touch and we’ll be happy to get the ball rolling.

Start your art project commissions today. 

SOA Arts will update per month, introducing the international ceramic industry of the exhibition, competitions, conferences, and other information. Please keep following!

Ceramics Exhibitions in July

* Exhibitions are organized by closing time

01 Stilled Melody

Exhibition of International Contemporary Ceramic Art Works

Exhibition Duration: July 12 - October 15, 2023

Venue: Tsinghua University Art Museum, Beijing

Following the 2018 "To Ideal Land of Ceramics: Exhibition of International Contemporary Ceramic Works" hosted by Tsinghua University Art Museum and sponsored by the National Art Foundation, "Stilled Melody: Exhibition of International Contemporary Ceramic Art Works" will open at Tsinghua University Art Museum on July 12, 2023.

The exhibition is curated by Professor Bai Ming, a famous artist, and director of the Ceramic Art Design Department of the Academy of Fine Arts of Tsinghua University. More than 80 representative works of contemporary ceramic artists worldwide are exhibited, aiming to demonstrate the cultural inheritance and innovative practice of international contemporary ceramic art and present the diversity and inclusiveness of contemporary ceramic art.

02 Object-Making and the Return of Things

The Artistic Journey of Bai Ming

Exhibition Duration: June 13 - October 15, 2023

Venue: One Art Museum, Beijing

One Art Museum's new exhibition, "Object-Making and the Return of Things - The Artistic Journey of Bai Ming" was officially launched on June 13, 2023. This exhibition is a full version of stage review and summary of Bai Ming's 30-year artistic career, and it is also the broadest and most important large-scale solo exhibition covering the time range of his works in the past five years. The show is organized by Beijing Shichuang Technology Park Development and Construction Co., LTD., and hosted by One Art Museum. Wang Tao, Executive President of Asian Development Affairs and Pritzker Chair of the Asian Art Department of the Art Museum of Chicago, is the curator. The extension runs from June 13, 2023, to October 15, 2023. The exhibition will be displayed on the first and second floors of One Art Museum, showing the artist Bai Ming's practical traces and spiritual journey of exploring artistic language paradigms in various fields such as ceramics, ink painting, oil painting and lacquer.

Bai Ming's artistic journey transcends the limitations of form and shape, advocating the return and tracing of the nature of things, and conveying a kind of elegant artistic conception of Oriental classical aesthetics. His works are not just a pile of cultural symbols, but a profound way of expression, the essence of Oriental wisdom and aesthetics condensed in the form, texture, texture, color, so as to reach the highest artistic realm of "simple road, great beauty". Each work is a combination of natural spirit and emotion, attracting the viewer to enter the spiritual space rich in philosophy and meaning created by the artist, evoking the spiritual resonance under the shared cultural background, and thus appreciating the subtle and far-reaching connection between people and things. The exhibition aims to lead the audience to experience Bai Ming's profound insight into the nature of matter and its transcendent artistic realm, while tracing the roots of traditional Chinese culture and thinking about how traditional culture can continue and innovate in the context of contemporary art.

03 Ceramics of the Past and the Future

The Timelessness of Traditional Japanese Craft Arts

Exhibition Duration: July 8 - August 27, 2023

Venue: Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum, Japan

The exhibition commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Ceramic Department of the Japan Handicraft Association in 2022, which has made history in traditional ceramics. The collection introduces the craftsmanship of ceramics and the beauty of the future through the masterpieces of "human national treasures" of the past and the latest works of emerging artists.

The exhibition introduces 139 works by 137 artists, including the works of "human national treasure" artists in the past, the results of artists who inherited the unique materials and traditions of the ceramic region, tea ceremony vessels, and the works of young artists, demonstrating the craftsmanship and beauty of ceramic art, so that it can connect with the future.

04 Robotic Clay:

New Methods in Architectural Ceramics

Exhibition Duration: June 2 - September 10, 2023

Venue: Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, Canada

Clay creation is achieved by accumulating material bit by bit, leaving traces of the process in each piece. This exhibition is intended to convey to the audience the possibility of re-understanding clay creation and its process continuity in the context of the technological advances brought about by the digital revolution. The exhibition brings together academic institutions from North America to showcase novel 3D-printed architectural ceramics. The artist combines traditional ceramic craftsmanship and robotic manufacturing, and the exhibition explores how emerging technologies can be harmonized with the unique properties of clay to create new forms and spatial languages. The show explores these forms and Spaces through a series of ceramic 3D-printed walls and multi-scale functional ceramic components.

05 The Sodeisha Group:

An Era Born Out of Avant-Garde Ceramics

Exhibition Duration: July 19 - September 24, 2023

Venue: National Museum of Modern Art, Japan

In 1948, The Sodeisha Group consisted of 5 people, Yagi Kazuo, Ye Tetsuo, Yamada Hikaru, Matsui Misuke, Suzuki Ji. It has been a driving force in the Japanese ceramic industry for 50 years, members change from time to time.

The exhibition focuses on the activities of The Sodeisha Group and reexamines its meaning and implications. Since the mid-1960s, and especially since the 1964 International Exhibition of Contemporary Ceramics, overseas trends have been introduced to Japan, and the 'modernity' that the mud society had during that period has gradually become relative. This exhibition focuses on the birth of modern ceramics up to 1973, the 25th anniversary of the group, and includes works by artists outside the society, such as members of the Four Lights Society, who developed the modern ceramic movement with the club.

06 the 62nd edition of the Faenza Prize,

International Biennial of Contemporary Ceramic Art

Exhibition Duration: July 1 - October 29, 2023

Venue: Faenza International Ceramic Museum, Italy

The award is one of the most important competition awards in the field of contemporary ceramic art in the world. It was initially established as an Italian national event in 1938 and expanded to the international stage in 1963. Held annually except during World War II, it has been changed to biennial since 1989, and numerous international artists have participated in more than 60 editions of the competition.

Participation in the Biennale was broad, with 70 entries selected from 1,101 submissions by 723 artists (or groups). The international involvement of the Biennale is also strong, with artists from 60 countries participating, which shows that ceramics have become a popular medium for contemporary art in this era.

A total of six Chinese artists were shortlisted for the Biennale, and two of them won prizes: Bao Wei won the Faenza Prize (under 35), and Peng Hongli won the D 'A Magazine Award.

07 Making in Between: Queer Clay

Exhibition Duration: May 6 - December 30, 2023

Venue: The American Museum of Ceramic Art, USA

The exhibition is the second major in the American Museum of Ceramic Art's "Making in Between" series. The collection brings together the work of artists engaged in cross-cutting work and exploring everyday themes of identity, culture and community.

In 2020, "Making in Between" : Contemporary Chinese American Ceramics showcases the work of six first - and second-generation artists who share themes of cultural heritage, identity, language, politics, migration, and displacement. The exhibition's theme shifts to an exploration of the broader implications of the concept of identity, focusing on the work of queer artists, bringing the group's often overlooked narrative to the forefront of ceramics.

08 松井康成（1927-2003）の没後20年にあたります

Exhibition Duration: June 21 - July 17, 2023

Venue: Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum, Japan

2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the death of Yasunari Matsui (1927-2003), one of Ibaraki's leading ceramic artists. Matsui was a pioneer in the development of the "stranding" technique, which combines different clay materials to create patterns, and in 1993 he was recognized as an "earthly national treasure" in recognition of his achievements.

In this exhibition, about 20 works from the museum's collection will be on display. These works use techniques such as "Whistle crack", "Image crack", "Extract porcelain" and "glass light", which were independently created by Matsui through the application of the strangling technique, showing Matsui's insatiable curiosity and thirst for knowledge when taking on new challenges.

09 GENG XUE: Solo Exhibition

The Venice Biennale Artist's First Solo Exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere

Exhibition Duration: July 12 - August 26, 2023

Venue: Suzaku Gallery, Australia

Australia-china Institute of Arts and Culture, Western Sydney University

This exhibition is Geng Xue's first solo exhibition in the Southern hemisphere. The show is curated by Dr. Gene Sherman AM, a famous Australian scholar, and chaired by Professor Shao Yiyang, deputy dean of the School of Humanities, Central Academy of Fine Arts. The exhibition will present Geng Xue's latest ceramic sculpture series, video works and paintings.

10 Liu Jianhua: Fluid Voids

Exhibition Duration: June 24 - November 19, 2023

Venue: Towada Art Center, Japan

Liu Jianhua's first solo exhibition in Japan, "Fluid Voids", will be held at Towada Art Center, Aomori Prefecture, Japan, featuring a series of works created by the artist in six different periods.

The exhibition will make effective use of the architectural structure of the museum, combing Liu Jianhua's creative practice spanning more than 20 years since 2001 in five different Spaces. These will include the large-scale installation "Abandoned" and the work "Tower", which debuted in Liu Jianhua's large-scale solo exhibition "Metaphysics" at Shanghai Fosun Art Center last year. It is also the first time that the artist attempts to juxtapose two works in the same space, forming a new intertext in terms of vision and meaning, inviting the viewer to walk between the virtual and the real, and deepening the concept of each other.

SOA Arts – Ceramic Art Sculptures for Hotels, Corporates, and More

What does SOA Arts mean? Our company is named save on art(SOA ARTS), because we hope that everyone who likes art can own our works of art at a good price. We want to extend beautiful things to different corners as far as possible.

At the same time, save on art also call on people not to throw away the existing artworks easily. You can use these artworks in another scene, or do some DIY to make ; the artworks glow with new luster and energy.

At SOA Arts, we know how hard it can be to find the large ceramic artwork you’re looking for. Fortunately, we have over 10 years of experience in making our clients’ interior design dreams a reality.

As a leading Chinese factory, we have everything we need to source, curate, commission, and produce exactly what you’re looking for. Get in touch and we’ll be happy to get the ball rolling.

Start your art project commissions today. 

Schopenhauer once said: "Minimalism is a return to life, making us pursue simplicity, freedom and pure existence." The more complex modern life becomes, the more we yearn for simplicity and purity.

The "minimalist" style is precisely this resistance to excessive piling and complexity.

But "minimalism" does not mean pure white walls and drab Spaces, nor does it mean giving up all material comforts and desires. So what does "minimalism" really mean? How should it be designed and built?

In this post, we share all about the "minimalist" interior design style. Including its historical evolution, design principles, classic elements and different ways of integrating into the space, making "minimalism" truly become your lifestyle and elegant taste.

What Is Minimalist Interior Design?

In the common impression, "minimalist" means absolute simplicity - clean lines, neutral colors, and restrained decoration. And with the "less is more", try to cut down the elements of life.

Although this does represent the outstanding characteristics of contemporary "minimalist style", the connotation does not necessarily end there. The concept of "minimalism" does not originate in the modern West but is rooted in different cultures and ethnicities with a long history.

Many nomadic communities, for example, have long followed a minimalist lifestyle out of necessity - every once in a while, they pack up all their clothes and move around.

So "minimalism" is, in essence, a simple and practical way of life - when you think about it, we can live in any space with very few necessities.

Some people just meet their needs and try to make things as simple as possible, which is also "minimalism". The key is to balance form and need, not style that looks good.

History of Minimalist Interior Design

Minimalist design comes from art, and this concept of "removing the superfluous and showing the essence" can even be traced back to Michelangelo's famous saying: "Cut away the superfluous stone. It is the perfect sculpture."

In the mid-20th century, with the architect Mies van der Rohe's concept of "less is more" and the hit "modern design movement" after World War II, "minimalism" began to really take hold.

Russian artist Malevich stressed: "pull away from all emotions, purely emphasize the shape and texture, reflect the minimalist spirit in the abstract", showing a return to the minimum essence and poetry.

Since then, this core principle of visual art has gradually been incorporated into the design of Spaces as a harsh response to the increasing complexity and chaos of urban life.

Today "minimalism" has been applied to all types of design: the spatial structure is simplified to only the necessary elements - eliminating unnecessary complexity and stacking, presenting pure beauty and power.

Benefits of a Minimalist Space 

Despite its decades-long roots, minimalist design never goes out of style and is still alive and well today.

First, minimalist design condenses function and utility into as few and precise elements as possible, thereby freeing up as much space as possible.

Especially for families with limited space, minimalist design can make the space spacious and bright.

Second, it directs us, visually and spiritually, to focus on what really matters. The minimalist space is pure and quiet, which can imperceptibly allow us to return to the inner order.

Third, as resistance to excessive consumption. Minimalism minimizes the impact of design, thereby revealing the true nature of space - the natural beauty of those stripped of decoration.

In addition, sustainability has also become a principal element in the lasting appeal of "minimalist style".

With the scarcity of resources and the climate crisis, more and more people are returning to the essence and reducing their material desires. So in addition to the practical need to economize, this style also involves an innate sense of responsibility.

In short, minimalist design turns complex into simple, condensing complex functional requirements into pure design language, so as to achieve a more ideal state of life.

Defining Elements of Minimalist Design

When you walk into the minimalist space, you will notice that there are no bells and whistles in the room, everything is carefully designed and planned - a handful of items, but cover the needs of life.

This may be the ultimate principle of minimalist design: emphasize what is really needed and important, and add almost no unnecessary embellishments.

The purpose of a minimalist space is not to show off: how much can I have? It's: How many things can I get rid of that I don't need?

You can think of minimalism as a desire to pursue the ultimate while following your heart. You need to find what inspires you, what really moves you, and then cut out the non-essential.

When designing a space with such an attitude, there is no need to stick to any particular expression. You can still retain your own unique personality in the simplest area.

How to Create Minimalist Style?

For minimalist design, the vision should not be particularly attracted to anything in the space, but fully perceive the overall atmosphere of the space.

Choose simple, sophisticated furniture, clean, elegant lines, and keep decor to a minimum. This does not mean ruthlessly excluding anything non-functional, but rather avoiding causing confusion.

01 Minimalist Order

Everything has a limit, or things will be vexed. Minimalism is not only a design style, but also a way of life. So the way to achieve a minimalist space is to first have fewer things - focus on keeping the things that are most important to you.

Keep the habit of storing and organizing regularly. Remove non-essential items immediately, keep the space clean and tidy as a whole, and ensure that each item can balance practical value and sensory pleasure.

In addition, choose carefully and buy wisely. When adding new items, focus on timeless, classic shapes and functions, and avoid buying trendy items.

Zhou Guoping once said, "The less you have, the freer you are." As long as we choose wisely and carefully, we can always have fewer but more refined things.

02 Minimalist Colors

Too bright colors may compete for visual focus, so for minimalist Spaces, it is best to choose simple and pure colors.

Combining two or three subtly varying neutrals is the safest minimalist color scheme. Not only are the colors easy to coordinate with each other, but it is also easier to create an overall clean atmosphere of the space.

In addition to the classic black, white and grey, cream, linen and earth colors are very popular. On this basis, matching natural or complementary colors can break the dull and add visual interest to the area.

Minimalist design has plenty of room to experiment with different color options - as long as everything is restrained and simple, it can add character and charm to the space through the combination of materials and textures.

03 Minimalist Style Furniture

The challenge of minimalist space design is that you have a minimal number of objects, and the quality is far greater than the quantity. Therefore, the choice and judgment of each item need to be considered.

You need to reflect on the necessities and priorities of your life, so that every object has a place, simple and practical, and can add value to the space.

Try to choose those that have stood the test of time, efficient use, simple shape, excellent texture of classic home deco. Blend function with beauty, avoiding elaborate details and fancy shapes.

All the objects in it are able to respond to each other. On the basis of fully meeting the needs of use, it has simple and permanent functional and aesthetic value.

04 Minimalist Style Textiles

How can you decorate a cool and fathomlessly minimalist space with a warm, cozy, charming feeling, simple but not monotonous? The answer: rich textile and texture.

Based on maintaining adjacent colors throughout the space, the introduction of different textiles can make the room present "diversity in unity", both in harmony with each other and in contrast to each other.

For example, the use of tulle curtains and linen carpets in the living room can add a sense of lightness. Soft fabrics and throw pillows can create a comfortable feeling of warmth, while curved home can soften the lines and shapes of the space.

Minimalism is about quality, not quantity; The more limited the object, the more important is the contrast and echo of texture. It will even directly determine whether the space is monotonous or rich, whether it is plain or elegant.

When all elements in the space: form, line, color, texture, etc., echo and relate to each other, they can work together in a harmonious form to create a comfortable and harmonious sensory experience.

05 Minimalist Style Accessories

The core of minimalist design is to eliminate anything that distracts and affects mental attention. Therefore, try to avoid complex decorations that may damage the internal beauty of things, and try to leave the space white.

You can choose the decoration of pure color and simple shape. The purpose is to enhance the space atmosphere and artistic atmosphere without affecting the visual experience.

But even simplification to the extreme doesn't mean cookie-cutter. Minimalism can be decorative, but be restrained and try to keep things that show personality and can really touch and inspire you.

For example, a black and white touching photograph may be more valuable than an expensive famous painting.

These exquisite decorations full of emotional value can make space more charming and reveal your aesthetic taste and lifestyle, which send minimalist room the feeling of "home".

Small-space living has become an increasingly popular choice in contemporary urban life. However, limited space does not mean that comfort and beauty are sacrificed. On the contrary, it requires us to maximize space with creative vision and clever design.

Every inch of space has a unique value, and the charm of home design is to play every inch of space to the extreme. Successful interior design can not only improve the beauty of the area, but also improve our quality of life.

Architect Frank Lloyd Wright once said, "Space is not for occupation, but for the soul to have a place to grow." Many space design tips, from color matching to furniture selection, and storage tips to lighting design, can make a home more spacious and comfortable.

In this post, we share 20 home design tips. Whether you want to make the most of a studio apartment or a corner space in your home, these simple and practical design tips can improve quality, soothe your soul, and enhance your life.

NO.01

Incorporate Reflective Materials

Light gloss finishes create a bright atmosphere by reflecting ambient light. Not only is it visually refreshing and clean, it also maximizes the space and brings a feeling of openness and spaciousness.

For example, opalescent walls with glossy tiles have a light, ethereal and transparent effect. On this basis, the partial embellishing of dark or matte materials can create a sharp contrast, having people focus on the space's highlights and characteristics, rather than the size.

NO.02

Opt for Pocket Doors

Sliding doors designed along the walls do not need to open inward or outward, and the simple and smooth design not only minimizes the space taken up. It also does not interrupt the overall fluidity of the walls, making the space look more unified and coordinated.

Sliding doors can also be partially transparent glass, allowing natural light to flow freely in the room, creating an open and bright environment, while enhancing the visual depth of the space, killing two birds with one stone.

NO.03

Display Artwork Strategically

When space is limited, it's easy to overlook the value of decor. But minimalism is not the only option. Decorating the walls with paintings or photography can not only enrich the visual effect, but also enhance the atmosphere of the home, making the space appear rich and impactful.

Works of art that extend from the floor to the ceiling also raise the eye to draw attention and highlight the height of the room. Make home feel bigger than it really is.

NO.04

Look for Multi-purpose Furniture

When space is limited, the smart choice is multi-purpose furniture: a desk that doubles as a writing and dining table, a sofa that doubles as a guest bed, or a chair that doubles as a side table or nightstand.

You can also use leather cushions instead of traditional coffee tables, place trays on top for flowers and books, and use them as extra seating when needed. Free to switch between formal and casual, perfect balance.

Carefully select furniture that provides a maximum function in a minimum area. For example, let the table have both island, dining table and storage, so that each piece of furniture is worth the money and maximizes space saving.

If it's challenging to separate sole living rooms, bedrooms, or dining rooms, try grouping them together. No matter the size, clever layout and multi-functional furniture can make the home both simple and functional.

NO.05

Hide the Utilities

If you want the space to be fresh and pleasant, in addition to carefully selecting and reducing items, paying attention to storage and cleverly hiding and storing to avoid visual chaos.

According to their own needs and habits, the use of beds, cabinets or footstools, customized special embedded drawers and storage cabinets, shoe cabinets, etc., free and flexible arrangement of storage space.

Look for furniture that doubles as storage, such as beds with built-in drawers or benches, and footstools with hidden objects. The smaller the space, the more everything has to be worth it.

NO.06

Float Your Furniture, Hang a Swing! 

Look for furniture that doubles as storage, such as beds with built-in drawers or benches, and footstools with hidden objects. If you want to be more daring, try floating furniture, such as wall lamps, hanging seats, shelves and even nightstands. Because it does not take up the actual floor space, it will give people a more open feeling. The smaller the space, the more everything has to be worth it.

Freeing up the ground also allows additional space below for additional storage when needed.

In addition, the furniture can also not be placed close to the wall, but leave a distance, so that there is breathing space between the furniture, it looks more spacious than it is.

NO.07

Use Large Rugs

Decorating a space can make it look more spacious than it actually is. The large carpet has no sense of fragmentation and can form visual continuity with the wall, making the space feel more unified, holistic and open.

A large carpet with a warm atmosphere can also increase the detail and depth of the space through color and texture, making the room feel more spacious.

NO.08

Display Heirlooms In Open Shelves

Using niches of different heights or depths to display books, plants and decorations not only creates more visual variation, but also increases ornamentation and avoids taking up limited floor space.

Exposed shelves or glass cabinets built into the walls can be paired with gallery lights to make the displayed collection look refined and elegant, attracting attention while maximizing the sense of hierarchy of the space.

When there is no room for additional tables, even niches can allow for countertops for work while providing additional storage for other necessities.

NO.09

Mount & Hide Your TV

The TV and multimedia console are the core space of many living rooms. Try hanging the TV above the wall or fireplace to free up floor space and make the living room look more spacious.

You can also hide the TV cleverly. Whether in a niche or disguised as a painting, the TV can be avoided as the focal point of the space, reducing visual clutter and creating a more concise and spacious environment.

NO.10

Take Advantage of Architectural Quirks

Every inch of a small house is essential, especially the seemingly difficult corner space, in fact, can be creative and create a unique personality.

For example, the window side can add a floating window ledge with both storage functions as a charming window corner; The oddly shaped living room is worth customizing a suitable sofa to maximize the use of space.

Low spaces can be cushioned lower to create the effect of a higher ceiling. Or create a cozy seating area with rugs and pillows.

The window space can be changed into a dining area, work area or display area to maximize the use of space. When the wasted space is used effectively, the whole home will appear spacious.

NO.11

Hang Plants Use Acrylic Furniture

Compared with the heavy traditional furniture, modern furniture usually uses simple lines and exquisite design, will not take up too much space, simple and elegant feeling can increase the visual permeability.

In addition, modern furniture is often made of lightweight materials. It can be moved, adjusted and arranged as needed, recreating the layout of the space or providing more space for movement.

NO.12

Strategize With Mirrors

This is definitely the oldest design technique. Mirrors are not only practical, they also create visual interest and layers by reflecting and refracting light, making spaces appear brighter and more open.

In addition, the mirror can also reflect the decoration and furniture of the room, increasing the richness of the detailed elements. Make small Spaces look rich and engaging.

You can use large mirrors or arrange several small mirrors, and you can even create mirror walls of different sizes and shapes as if you were working with art.

NO.13

Don't Be Afraid to Go Bold

Limited space doesn't mean it has to be a drab white box. If you love color, try bold colors, prints, and textures.

If you are worried about overdoing the clutter, you can use a small range of bright colors based on the color balance - such as colorful wallpaper, beautiful throw pillows or colorful picture frames and vases.

Sometimes, the darker background color on the walls and ceiling will not make the space appear cramped, but will be as small and delicate as a jewelry box.

NO.14

Go for Folding Pieces

In line with the trend of compact apartments, more and more designs are also trending toward collapsible designs that can accommodate multiple uses, and can be folded or tucked away to make space when not in use.

Folding furniture such as folding seats, tables and even folding beds, not only can be easily stored, but also has a variety of uses, can be flexibly adjusted according to needs, suitable for different scenes and needs, especially for small home space.

In addition, folding furniture is lighter and easier to move than traditional furniture. This flexibility makes the layout of small Spaces easier and more flexible when you need to rearrange the space or temporarily expand it.

NO.15

Get Creative With Storage

Every home needs a certain amount of storage space, especially when space is limited, but also to be creative in storage, according to the needs of the custom storage area, make full use of every available corner.

Built-in storage areas can be customized using walls. For example, embedded bookshelves, display cabinets or closets can maximize the use of four walls for storage and storage, which can maximize the release and save space.

Take advantage of the underutilized area between the top of the space and the ceiling, and set up cabinets by hanging or high mounting. Not only can increase the storage area, but also make the space feel high and open.

You can even use the lower part of the space to design shelves, not only convenient storage, but also as an additional bedroom or display area, so that the space is simple and refreshing.

NO.16

Keep It Neutral & Cohesive

If you want to maintain the cohesion of the small space, the coordination between the furniture and the overall collocation is crucial. The uniform tone can bring visual continuity, thus increasing the extension of the space.

Neutral tones are relatively neutral in color, will not bring too much color conflict or confusion, and can create a balanced and pleasant effect.

NO.17

Create Zones

As long as the maximze use, space has infinite possibilities. Elements such as screens, partition walls and bookshelves can be used to creatively separate areas to distinguish different spatial functions and avoid confusion and congestion.

Soft partition areas with different heights, materials or colors can not only clarify the function, but also create layers and depth to expand the view, thus making the space more spacious.

NO.18

Get a Wall Desk

Many needs in life are segmented, such as tables, desks and chairs. We do not always have this need, but it is indispensable, so you can consider wall-mounted furniture.

This type of design, in which furniture is fixed to the wall or suspended from the ceiling, is especially suitable for limited Spaces, saving space and being efficient and practical.

The wall-mounted folding table can be unfolded as a workbench at any time, ideal for occasional work or dining. Wall-mounted bookshelves act as vertical storage areas, saving space while adding decorative flair.

NO.19

Build a Partial Glass Wall

Nothing feels more closed in than a solid wall. In spaces that do not require special partitions, you can consider replacing real doors or walls with glass partitions to maintain the coherence and sense of openness of the space.

Transparent dividing elements such as glass partitions, transparent grids or screens can be used to create private areas while maintaining the fluidity of the space.

The glass partition is especially suitable for modern simple and exquisite home design, the free flow of light provides a better view and landscape, and the rich visual effects add elegant and exquisite style to the space.

NO.20

Incorporate Smart Lighting 

Due to congenital limitations, small Spaces usually have very small Windows, which feel dark and depressing. But the truth is, regardless of the size of the space, good landscaping and lighting can significantly improve the feel of the space.

The narrower the space, the more bright and warm light is needed. Choose wall sconces or hanging chandeliers to maximize space savings while creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.

In addition, maximize the use of Windows to allow light to flood the entire room. The beauty and greenery outside the window allow the sight to penetrate the narrow space, bringing depth and layer of field, which is refreshing.