Building Craft Contests
There are two types of matches: “dui-chang” and “dou-yi”.
“Dui-chang” means that when a temple is being planned, craftsmen of two different schools will be hired to decorate two parts of the same temple. In the past, a temple was usually built in two parts and thus, this type of match inspired craftsmen to demonstrate their best skills side by side. “Dou-yi,” means that when a temple is being planned, craftsmen of different schools will be hired to decorate complete temples.
The two kinds of matches have brought us temples of diverse building styles, designs and patterns, and exquisite decorations produced by craftsmen proficient in the arts and crafts of building.
So, the museum has devised a plan to carry on the tradition. Twenty-two contemporary Koji Pottery craftsmen have been invited to display their works on a wall. This has enabled not only craftsmen to discuss and study skills with others but also visitors to discover a variety of styles and designs.