The UC Davis Design Museum examines the vibrant fusion of traditional innovative designs in the Jiangnan style in a special installation. “Tradition Meets Modernization: The Wisdom of Livelihood and Design in Jiangnan Style” will be on exhibition April 30 through May 3 only.

The Jiangnan style was developed in Southern Yangtze Delta area over many centuries. As the important birthplace of Chinese civilization, the Jiangnan style carries the values of profound traditional culture as well as reflecting innovation in modern-day designs.

The installation comprises four sections — clothing, food, housing and transportation. “Clothing” highlights the development from Chinese traditional costumes to contemporary fashion creation and how hand craftsmanship advances present aesthetics. “Food” focuses on the design evolution of purple clay teapots to promote the elegance of Jiangnan tea culture. “Living” centers on the application of mortise and tenon structures illustrating Chinese architectural skill, a practice speaking for design sustainability. “Transportation” presents models of traditional painted wooden boats alongside small-scaled prototypes of energy-saving vehicles. 

Showcasing the unique characters in the Jiangnan style, this exhibition interprets the wisdom of livelihood through integrating Chinese traditional material culture and contemporary design innovations.  

The exhibition is presented in conjunction with the School of Design, Jiangnan University, China.

There will be an opening reception on April 30 at 5 p.m. in Cruess Hall, Room 1002. The event is free and open to the public with hands-on activities includes a mortise and tenon experience and a Jiangnan style tea ceremony. 

The Design Museum, part of the College of Letters and Science and free to the public, is in 124 Cruess Hall. 

The UC Davis Design Museum is open Monday–Friday, noon-4:00 p.m. To schedule a weekend appointment (Sunday 2:00–4:00 p.m. only), arrange a group visit, or for further information please call (530) 752-6150 or email tplance@ucdavis.edu.

See Design Museum for map and parking information.