A polished portfolio

In addition to receiving a prize of 20,000 yuan ($2,890), Yao has been granted a two-month residency at the renowned Paris International Art City, where he will have the opportunity to study and create new work.

During his residency, he will have the chance to showcase his creations at an open studio day at the Paris International Art City, or to exhibit his work in a salon at the Yishu 8 Paris space. After completing his residency, he will hold a solo exhibition at the Yishu 8 Art Center in Beijing.

Yao says he is looking forward to visiting France and finding new inspiration for his work.

Lei Geye, cofounder of Hand of Wisdom, says she hopes Yao will have the opportunity to engage in deep exchanges with his French counterparts. "On one hand, he can continue to delve into the traditional lacquer craftsmanship, and on the other, he can bring new artistic expression to the craft," Lei says.

Laurent Boillot, CEO of Hennessy, sponsor of the program, extended an invitation to Yao to visit France and share his expertise, knowledge, and craftsmanship, and act as a bridge for cultural exchange between both countries. "We have a lot of imagination for his trip to France," he says.

After visiting China multiple times and learning extensively about Chinese culture and the history of cultural exchanges between France and China, Boillot observed similarities in craftsmanship between the two countries. He notes that both showcase precision in their work, as well as an appreciation for the beauty and artistry of their craft.