In the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, artist Alice Chang is breathing new life into centuries-old treasures. Her mosaic-covered sculptures, adorned with shards of Ming Dynasty pottery, have become a magnetic attraction for both tourists and locals.
Chang’s journey began with the discovery of the Wanli shipwreck off the coast of Malaysia. The wreck, dating back to the late 16th and early 17th centuries, was laden with over 9,000 pieces of Chinese pottery. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Underwater Heritage Site under its Silk Roads Programme, the ship is believed to have sunk during a fierce battle between Portuguese and Dutch forces.
“When I first saw the pottery shards, I felt a deep connection to the past,” Chang says. “I wanted to create something that honors their history while making it accessible to people today.”
Her intricate mosaics are more than just art; they are a bridge between eras. By incorporating the ancient fragments into modern sculptures, Chang highlights Malaysia’s historic role as a crossroads of global trade during the Ming Dynasty. The artwork serves as a tangible link to the ancient Silk Road, reminding viewers of the rich cultural exchanges that have shaped the region.
The sculptures have sparked curiosity and admiration. “It’s incredible to see pieces of history transformed like this,” says Amir, a local student. “It makes me appreciate our heritage even more.”
Chang hopes her work will inspire others to explore and value the stories embedded in their own cultures. “Art has the power to connect us,” she reflects. “By bringing these shards back to the surface, I’m not just reviving objects, but the narratives they carry.”
As the mosaics continue to captivate audiences, Alice Chang’s work stands as a vibrant testament to the enduring legacy of the Ming Dynasty and the enduring spirit of creativity.
