TAN Jingjing
(Academy of Art and Design, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China)

Abstract: In essence, ceramic design is a kind of creation, but “imitation” is the basis of all creation. “Imitation” is a kind of inheritance, and any “creation” is based on tradition. No “imitation” no “creation”. Throughout the development of all the designs of Wedgwood ceramics,“imitation” and “creation” have been running alongside each other. The two seemingly opposite features appeared together in the design and development of the century-old ceramic brand Wedgwood. And along with its development over nearly 260 years, the brand value has been increasing. While “imitating” (inherited) the classical designs but not adhering to the traditional, Wedgewood artists have been constantly “creating” (innovating). Their efforts and achievements could lead to further reflection on the development direction and target of ceramic design in China.

Key words: wedgwood; imitation; creation; jasper; black basalt