two years since it’s initial release in china, the book, ‘chinese contemporary furniture design’ by designer jerry J.I. chen has now been published in english translation to readers around the world. the publication showcases in beautiful detail the culture of modern chinese furniture and aims to introduce western audiences to the innovations of design in present day china.

jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design

all images © jerry J.I. chen

 

 

chen has worked in the fields of design for three decades, during which he has amassed a depth of knowledge and experience which is displayed in his publication. the designer received no formal training, however gained creative inspiration from his many travels. throughout his lifetime, chen has also been an avid collector of antique chinese art. the book therefore makes the connection between classical and contemporary chinese design, forging a new aesthetic for furniture in china.

jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design

 

 

on discussing why he decided to write this book, chen explains that when he looked at existing publications on chinese furniture, there was nothing that explained the field in a clear and accessible manner. he continues to note, ‘we hoped that our book would inspire readers to look beyond form and materials and towards the cultural values and philosophical ideas behind chinese furniture.’

jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design

 

 

‘I hope that the english edition will create an awareness of contemporary chinese furniture design in people around the world. now it exists in the world to facilitate the sharing of design ideas and to help perpetuate chinese cultural tradition.’ first published in october 2016, the book received wide acclaim and is now regarded as a must-read. the release of this translation aims to also inspire western audiences and provide insight into the vast subject of design in china.

jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design

jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design

jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design   jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design

jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design

jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design       

jerry J.I. chen introduces western audiences to chinese contemporary furniture design

 

 

book info:

 

title: ‘chinese contemporary furniture design — from cultural appreciation to chunzai creativity’

author: jerry J.I. chen

publishers: foreign language press

date: december 2018