Albert Tay Guan Heng

Fabri, Patrizia

Ceramicist

Nicky Loh ©Michelangelo Foundation

Joss stick maker

Albert is the fourth generation to work on this craft
He began to work in the family business at nine years old
It is an ephemeral craft: the joss sticks he makes are burnt during religious ceremonies

Today, Albert Tay Guan Heng is the last joss stick craftsmen of Singapore. His business, Tay Guan Heng, was founded in the 1930s and is a family-run business which started making mosquito coils from wood clay, a technique the family learnt from their Teochew hometown back in China. He inherited his skills from his father and grandfather, learning by watching them – like his seven brothers. Now, at 63 years old, Albert keeps on working every day on his craft with one of his older brothers, diversifying his offer with Western influences. The objects are made of cinnamon tree wood mixed with water which makes a paste that is being carved in dragons, deities and other Chinese Taoist symbols. The drying part takes many days and is sometimes a bit arduous due to the heavy rains in Singapore.

Interview

Nicky Loh ©Michelangelo Foundation

How would you define what you do?: I make traditional giant Taoist joss sticks in natural cinnamon wood clay, which are meant to be burned during religious Taoist ceremonies. The demand has evolved so now I also make western items like nativity scenes, gingerbread houses and customised sculptures.
How do you express tradition and innovation in your work?: I keep on making the religious giant joss sticks which are part of the tradition of worship. I now use wooden moulds to carve the pattern which saves me time and conserves my energy. I also spray paint the joss sticks to get even more vibrant colours and a joyful result.
What do you suggest to a young artisan who wants to do your same job?: Young people must have passion in their craft. It is highly time consuming which means that I have dedicated many nights and weekends to my job – and it does not pay much. You’ll find pride when people are filled with satisfaction about our works.
Could your craft be considered in danger?: Yes. Demand for joss sticks has decreased a lot in recent decades and most of the Taoist ceremonies were cancelled during the Covid pandemic. My brother and I are the only joss sticks craftsmen left in Singapore. People might be amazed by our works but no one will choose it as a career.

Albert Tay Guan Heng is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1975