From January to March 2008, the National Science and Technology Museum hosted a series of exhibitions themed upon contemporary sword and saber artists. For the first time, artworks of 12 sword and saber masters are gathered under one roof to give the audiences a compete view of the contemporary art. This exhibition received heated responses as it opens a space for the less focus yet significant art of metalwork. Once again, we bring you the world famous Longquan Swords and Sabers and the art of the contemporary craft masters in this exhibition of ultimate presentation of metal science and exquisite craftsmanship.
LongquanCity of Zhejiang, China has over 2000 years of traditions in professional sword making. It is speculated that the two legendary swords, “Tieying” and “Jianci”, are still kept inside of the city. It is home of swords and now has nearly one hundred outlets selling artistic swords and sabers. New sword making technologies are infused into traditional craft; Longquan's swords and sabers are now presented to the world in a whole new look and take up the majority share of the world market. A wide range of blade products are manufactured in Longquan with a combination of traditional and modern technologies. Especially valuable, patterned steel technology is now revived and used to make exquisite patterns for the collectible crafts.
This exhibition invited seven contemporary master artists who have experience in international exhibition to showcase approximately 70 pieces of artworks. The exhibition will be open to the public from October 18th (Sat.) 2008 to February 1st (Sun.) 2009at the second floor Art Café. Technology meets art; it is a feast of traditional crafts and an event not to be missed.