A Letter from FRANZ CHEN
Last year, I was privileged to have been invited to speak at an international ceramic conference in Europe, which was attended by leaders in the industry. Someone asked me why we continue to invest so much time and energy into each and every design, at a time when so many other brands try to churn out as many new items as possible, as quickly as possible, as cheaply as possible. To answer, I related how recently I had visited one of our stores and as I stood there, a lady walked in and she immediately walked over to one of our pieces – it was if it called out to her. She was stopped in her tracks by a FRANZ vase. She examined it from every angle, reaching out to touch the delicately carved birds and flowers. And then she stepped back and decisively said, “I’ll take it.”
As I watched her, I was inspired – because this interaction is exactly how I envision the experience of anyone who encounters our porcelain art products. Encountering art is often an experience that is transcendental. In that moment, something deep inside responds to the work, instinctively aware of the resonances that reverberate within, sensing – even if words cannot be found to express it – how art uplifts and enriches. This is why I believe true art will last – because its essence is deep, its beauty is timeless, its message is inspiring. And in this one brief encounter with this lady, I saw all this in her eyes, in her smile, in her gesture.
At FRANZ, each person involved in the entire production process – including designers, sculptures, painters – are true experts, bringing not only their experience and insight but also their abiding love of Nature and Humanity.
Despite the uncertainty and turmoil experienced by so many in 2017, I take heart in the many acts of kindness that I have witnessed. I continue to have faith in the people around me and believe that we can come together to celebrate all that is good – art that crosses boundaries, culture that delivers wisdom and truth across the centuries, beauty that elevates the soul and brings joy beyond measure.
We at FRANZ treasure the words of encouragement you have shared with us – whether it was through email, leaving a comment on Facebook, or in person. We thank you for your support and loyalty and we wish you much peace and prosperity in 2018.
