Living World Series Pot 117
230×115×6 cm, 1982-86
Clay, Glaze / Juming Museum
The “Living World Series” demonstrates different aspects of confusion and interaction among people. In this piece, the human figure is a “unit”. In order to create an image of the human world, Ju Ming shifts the focus from the representation of the individual to the overall composition and unified impression. However, each figure is done in distinct style and colors. The “units” have been placed together closely and represent the inextricable links between individuals. At the same time, his perception of the human world is vividly presented.

Living World Series Pot 021
51×9×17 cm, 1984
Clay, Glaze / Juming Museum
In this work, the slightly arched back of the fish achieves an eneregetic momentum, and the curve running along the body is elegant and delicate. Ju Ming shows his mastery of realism while insisting on keeping the simple texture and natural and unadorned qualities of the clay. The approach not only shows an aesthetic demonstration, but also imbues the work with a postmodern feel and a sense of “game”.

Living World Series Pot 026
69×9×26 cm, 1985
Clay, Glaze / Juming Museum
Ju’s most usual technique is direct carving. The method is not subject to form, but is controled with sensuous and unpredictable speed. The artist would break and build a clay quickly, paying no attention to the small changes happening to the clay and form during the process. He also let the glaze flow over the fish body as in a “sensuous and unpredictable” physical dialogue with the work. This is why we will be overwhelmed by the surprising creative effects when we see Ju’s ceramic fish.

Living World Series Pot 125
102×37×15 cm, 1984
Clay, Glaze / Juming Museum
Ju Ming paid much attention to collage works in the “Living World Series.” One of them is the fish presented in double form. The work is open to interpretation, which might contradict the rationality of the style. This work can be seen as “mother and child” theme because of its size and appearance. Moreover, it can be analyzed to determine its artistic qualities in a more traditional sense by its formal and spatial relationships.

Living World Series Pot 200
104.5×24.5×12.4 cm, 1985
Clay, Glaze / Juming Museum
Ju Ming shows both sides of the fish body in a realistic and concise manner. On one side, a natural crack which starts from mouth running along the gills, eyes, dorsal fin, to the belly, highlights the round and elastic body. On the other side, the contours of the body exhibit elegance and strength. The colors of the back change first from red and brown to greyish white and brown, then to white and light blue. This is a typical example of Ju’s masterful control of glaze and firing technique.