After graduating from the Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute in China with a Ceramic Art degree, Nuokan moved back to her hometown of Shanghai and worked in various start-ups. Later she hitchhiked her way through Western China and traveled throughout Southeast Asia. She then decided to move back to Jingdezhen, the porcelain capital of the world, to resume making ceramics and become a full-time studio potter. A few years later she moved with her partner to the United States, taking her out of her comfort zone in life and art. Lacking a studio space, Nuokan began creating small-scale work inspired by traditional Chinese aesthetics. Her recent move to New York marks a new chapter in her artistic journey, where she continues to explore and innovate in the vibrant artistic landscape of the city.
I started making miniatures when I first moved to the United States. The limitation of studio access and the uncertainty of my future inspired me to make small-scale work. I was delighted to have found infinite possibilities and joy in creating tiny pots. My work has evolved from traditional functional forms into mini-landscapes. These landscapes represent a personal oasis, offering an escape from the chaos of daily life and providing me with the freedom to create and explore.