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The Smiling Buddha of Qingzhou Comes to Fuzhou
In the world of ancient Chinese art, Qingzhou holds a special place for its distinctive Buddhist sculptures, often described as embodying the "Qingzhou style." These timeless works will soon grace the city of Fuzhou, offering art enthusiasts and spiritual seekers a unique glimpse into the history of Buddhist art in China. From September 28 to December 27, 2024, the "Seeing Smiles: Special Exhibition of Buddhist Sculptures from Ancient Qingzhou" will be held at the Fuzhou Museum, giving visitors the opportunity to witness masterpieces that have shaped Eastern art history. Qingzhou: The Center of Buddhist Artistic Mastery During the late Han dynasty, Buddhism made its way from ancient India to China, and by the Northern and Southern Dynasties (386–589 CE), the religion had firmly established itself. As it flourished, magnificent Buddhist sites such as the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang and the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang became legendary for their artistic treasures. However, in the eastern region of China, Qingzhou, located in what is today Shandong Province, became a significant hub for Buddhist art with a unique style of its own. In 1996, an archaeological discovery at Longxing Temple in Qingzhou brought global attention to this small city. Over 400 Buddhist sculptures…- 0
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Pao Gong: Spiritual Expression in China's Central Plains
In the heart of China's Central Plains, a peculiar phenomenon has unfolded quietly, hidden from mainstream attention. Every year, on certain traditional lunar calendar days, groups of individuals gather to create mesmerizing visual compositions. These arrangements, often constructed from everyday objects like cigarette packs, fruits, instant noodles, and soda bottles, are coupled with colorful watercolor paintings, forming intricate and cryptic patterns that seem to whisper messages of spiritual significance. A Strange but Beautiful Encounter Seven years ago, artist Zhang Xiao first stumbled upon these strange yet beautiful creations. Initially, he couldn't quite decipher their meaning—these seemingly symbolic patterns resembled an alien communication system, mysterious and perplexing. Yet, as he delved deeper, the raw, untamed beauty of the compositions revealed itself, untouched by formal aesthetic education. The art was not a product of technical mastery but rather an instinctive grasp of proportion, balance, and symmetry, as though these creators were channeling some cosmic truth beyond words. In contrast to museum artworks, which have been analyzed and interpreted to exhaustion, these figures struck Zhang with a visceral, almost eerie power. They weren't "art" in the traditional sense but instead felt like a primal force pushing through the mundane, a testament to humanity's…- 0
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The Evolution of Daoming Bamboo Art Village
Nestled amidst the serene bamboo groves and traditional white-walled, blue-tiled houses of the Sichuan countryside lies Daoming (道明) Bamboo Art Village. A mere four years ago, this village, located in Longhuang Village, Daoming Town, Chongzhou, was just one of many ordinary rural settlements in western Sichuan. Today, however, it has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub known far beyond China's borders. Not only does it showcase its rich bamboo weaving heritage, but it has also made a name for itself internationally, representing Chinese rural beauty at events like the Venice Biennale. This transformation is a perfect example of the success of Chengdu's rural revitalization initiative, reflecting a broader vision of creating beautiful, livable, and ecologically balanced spaces. The success of Daoming Bamboo Art Village demonstrates how an underdeveloped rural area can reinvent itself while preserving its cultural roots. The Struggles of a Forgotten Village Before its transformation, Longhuang Village was like many other traditional villages in China—charming but underdeveloped. It was home to a few elderly residents and women, while most of the younger generation had left in search of better opportunities in urban areas. The village's main source of income was bamboo weaving, a craft with roots tracing back…- 0
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A Cultural Feast Under the Lion Mountain in Suzhou
A Poetic Past in Suzhou's Moonlit Nights More than 1,200 years ago, a young poet found himself in Suzhou on an autumn night, standing by the famous Fengqiao bridge. Mesmerized by the serene beauty of the Jiangnan water town, he penned a timeless verse that would resonate with generations: "The moon sinks, crows cry, frost fills the sky, River maples and fishing lights fill the traveler's sorrow. Outside Gusu City, by Hanshan Temple, The midnight bell reaches my boat." This famous poem by Zhang Ji painted a vivid picture of the cold night in Gusu City (now Suzhou), with its striking moonlit landscapes. Since then, the poem and Suzhou's sights, especially Hanshan Temple and its evening bell, have drawn countless visitors seeking the poetic charm of the city. But this year, Suzhou is offering something different for its Mid-Autumn Festival—a cultural extravaganza that blends history with celebration, transforming the melancholy of the ancient poem into modern-day festivity. Shishan: Suzhou's New Cultural Landmark Shishan (狮山), or Lion Mountain, sits in the western part of Suzhou and is known for its majestic granite slopes. Historically, Shishan was known as the backdrop to Suzhou's tranquil countryside. Today, it's a key cultural site and…- 0
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Song of The Pipa Meet Kunqu Opera at a Summer Night
An Evening on the Banks of the Huangpu River As summer gradually transitions to autumn, the symphony of cicadas lingers in the air, blending with the gentle breeze of the Huangpu River. The city lights dance on the water, and at the Shanghai 1862 Art Center, a breathtaking scene unfolds. The theater's walls are partially open, revealing flickering lights that reflect on the river as boats glide by. Against this backdrop, Bai Juyi's timeless poem, Song of the Pipa (琵琶行), comes to life in a performance of Kunqu Opera—a captivating blend of ancient verse and new-age creativity. On the evening of September 7th, the neo-classical Kunqu Opera (昆曲) adaptation of Song of the Pipa premiered, immersing the audience in a poetic journey. The character of Bai Juyi, the poet himself, makes his appearance, embodying the lines of the poem, "The master dismounted, the guest was on the boat, wine was raised, but no music played." What follows is a two-hour performance where characters from Bai Juyi's verse—including the pipa-playing heroine, Qian Niang—grace the stage. The opera traverses through five acts: Splashing Wine, Parting Ways, Reunion, Blindness, and Lingering Echoes. Through these, the ups and downs of Qian Niang's life unfold,…- 0
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How Chinese Opera is Captivating a New Generation
As traditional Chinese opera grapples with modern trends, it has found a way to bridge the gap between its rich heritage and the tastes of younger audiences. By incorporating innovative elements, Chinese opera is evolving, creating immersive experiences and shedding its "niche" image. The success of productions like The New Dragon Gate Inn (龙门客栈) demonstrates how this transformation is attracting new viewers and helping the art form break free from its historical confines. New Adaptations, New Fans In recent years, Chinese opera troupes have started embracing fresh ideas. Productions such as The New Dragon Gate Inn, a reimagined version of a beloved classic, have successfully integrated contemporary storytelling techniques. The incorporation of interactive elements and modern stage designs has attracted a growing audience, including those previously unfamiliar with opera. One key element of this reinvention is the concept of "immersive theater," where audiences are not merely passive observers but become part of the experience. The play’s lead actress, Xie Jianghui, fondly recalls her first performance in The New Dragon Gate Inn, noting how close she felt to the audience. “I could see their expressions up close, which made the experience nerve-wracking yet exhilarating," she says. Despite the team's uncertainty about…- 0
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Weaving the Cultural Heritage: Bamboo and Straw Weaving in Sanzao
In today's fast-paced world, many traditional arts are fading into obscurity, replaced by modern innovations. Yet, some artisans remain committed to preserving their craft, ensuring that it survives for future generations. One such individual is Tang Hejia (汤何佳), a 73-year-old master of bamboo and straw weaving, who has devoted his life to the preservation and promotion of this time-honored art. In the small town of Sanzao, Guangdong, Tang Hejia's hands bring bamboo and straw to life, weaving not only practical items but also the dreams of cultural heritage. The Legacy of Bamboo and Straw Weaving in Sanzao For many, memories of childhood include simple bamboo baskets or trays, common household items in rural China. However, in Sanzao (三灶), this weaving tradition has taken on a special significance. Known as the Sanzao Bamboo and Straw Weaving Technique (三灶竹草编织技艺), this craft was officially recognized in 2015 as part of Guangdong's intangible cultural heritage. This honor not only acknowledges the artistry involved but also ensures its preservation for future generations. Bamboo and straw weaving in Sanzao is much more than a craft; it is an embodiment of the region's agricultural and marine cultures. The products, such as crab skeleton baskets, flower trays, and…- 0
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Golden Treasures from Longcheng Shine in New York
Artifacts from ancient civilizations always evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity about the past, providing a glimpse into the stories of long-lost cultures. One such exhibition recently opened in New York, bringing to life the rich history of the Three Yan Kingdoms from China. Titled "Golden Treasures of Longcheng: Selected Artifacts from the Three Yan Kingdoms, 337-436(龙城之金:辽宁三燕文物选萃)", this special autumn exhibition at the China Institute Gallery in New York is showcasing over 100 artifacts from the ancient kingdom of Longcheng (modern-day Chaoyang in Liaoning province). These artifacts tell the story of a civilization that thrived over 1,600 years ago, emphasizing the significance of cultural exchange and the merging of different traditions. A Forgotten Kingdom Rediscovered Curator Hai Weilan, from the China Institute Gallery, expressed her excitement at the opportunity to highlight a relatively unknown period in Chinese history. "This unique exhibition sheds light on the largely forgotten culture of the Three Yan Kingdoms," she noted. For the first time, precious relics from Longcheng are on display in the United States, offering a rare opportunity for viewers to understand the deep cultural exchanges that occurred during that era. The Three Yan Kingdoms, established by the Murong Xianbei people, existed at…- 0
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The 2024 Kunshan Chinese Opera Festival
The 2024 Chinese Opera Festival (Kunshan), or "Hundred Opera Festival," officially commenced on the evening of September 5th in Kunshan, Jiangsu Province. As a unique platform for showcasing China’s rich operatic heritage, this event brought together seven esteemed opera artists who delivered a series of mesmerizing performances. Beyond the stage, the festival spilled into local villages with public performances, captivating tourists and opera enthusiasts alike with the diverse appeal of traditional Chinese opera. The event highlighted how Chinese opera is no longer confined to the theater, but has become a bridge between culture, tourism, and everyday life. Kunshan: The Birthplace of Chinese Opera Kunshan (昆山), the birthplace of Kunqu Opera, has long been a hub of traditional Chinese opera culture. Since 2018, the Chinese Opera Festival has been a major platform for the exchange of various opera styles, as well as a venue for the development and training of opera talent. The festival, hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism along with the Jiangsu Provincial Government, continues to foster a vibrant environment for opera artists and enthusiasts to showcase their skills. In his opening remarks, Xia Xinmin, the Vice Governor of Jiangsu, emphasized the province's deep opera heritage, which…- 0
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The Compassionate Eyes of Shanxi Shanhua Temple
Nestled in the heart of Datong, Shanxi, Shanhua Temple (善华寺) stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Jin and Liao dynasties. Officially known as the Ancient Shanhua Temple, it houses some of China's most significant historical treasures. While Datong's fame is often associated with the Yungang Grottoes and the Huayan Temple, Shanhua Temple quietly holds its own, attracting those who seek the profound beauty of ancient art. Famed architects Liang Sicheng and Lin Huiyin once praised the temple in their Report on Ancient Architecture in Datong, marveling at its preserved relics from the Liao and Jin periods. The temple's main structures—the Shanmen Hall, Sansheng Hall, and Puxian Pavilion—are all masterpieces from the Jin dynasty, while the Daxiong Hall boasts origins in the Liao dynasty. Despite the overshadowing fame of nearby attractions, Shanhua Temple offers a serene and introspective journey through history. The Playful Guardians of Shanmen Hall and Sansheng Hall As you step into Shanhua Temple, the first sight that greets you is the Shanmen Hall (山门殿), home to four Ming dynasty statues of Heavenly Kings. Unlike the typical fierce expressions seen in many temples, these guardians wear unexpectedly friendly and almost playful faces. Among them, the…- 0
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The Art of Imperfection: A Journey through Organic Pottery
Nestled in the tranquil village of Xianghu (湘湖), Jingdezhen (景德镇), a small, unassuming studio serves as both a workspace and a sanctuary for the artist known simply as Youji. The studio, a modest structure with whitewashed walls and concrete floors, blends seamlessly with the local residences, embodying simplicity and authenticity. Inside, the space is a chaotic yet harmonious blend of ceramics, calligraphy, and small oil paintings, all scattered without apparent order. The unadorned nature of the studio reflects the artist’s connection to the raw, untamed beauty of life, which is evident in the open fields visible from the entrance. Youji moved into this studio named “Organic” three years ago, shortly after graduating from Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute in the summer of 2020. Since then, he has crafted thousands of bowls, each one unique in its color and design. His bowls, adorned with muted hues like matte white, deep blue, and faded pink, are more than mere pottery; they are canvases for his spontaneous creativity. The unpredictable glaze patterns and free-flowing lines give each piece a sense of life and movement, making them both functional and artistic. He shares his creations on lifestyle platforms like Xiaohongshu, where they have gained popularity, with…- 0
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Guanpu Oil Paper Fans: A Cool Breeze from Tradition
In the heart of Fujian Province, nestled in the city of Fu'an, lies a village where a centuries-old tradition still thrives—Guanpu (官浦), the birthplace of the exquisite Guanpu Oil Paper Fan. Before the era of electric fans and air conditioning, these fans were an indispensable companion for the people of Fujian and the surrounding regions, providing not just relief from the summer heat but also a connection to their cultural heritage. Though many artisans abandoned the craft in the late 20th century, today, Guanpu Oil Paper Fans are experiencing a revival, celebrated as symbols of craftsmanship, culture, and cool, refreshing breezes. The significance of these fans extends beyond their functional use. They represent a bridge between the past and the present, a tangible link to a way of life that has largely been lost in the rush of modernization. In a time when so much of our world is dominated by mass production and disposable goods, the meticulous handcrafting of a Guanpu Oil Paper Fan serves as a reminder of the value of patience, skill, and tradition. The Craftsmanship Behind the Fan The creation of a Guanpu Oil Paper Fan is a labor of love, involving over 36 meticulous steps…- 0
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Huzhou: A Hidden City in the Heart of Jiangnan
The Storied History and Artistic Legacy of Huzhou Huzhou, a city named after the great Lake Tai (Taihu), is a place where history, culture, and natural beauty converge in a way that is both tranquil and inspiring. Located in the northernmost part of Zhejiang Province, Huzhou is surrounded by cultural giants like Suzhou and Hangzhou. Despite its relatively modest size and less glamorous reputation, Huzhou has long been a place of significant cultural and historical importance. The city's rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and relaxed lifestyle make it a quintessential Jiangnan water town, embodying the slow-paced, poetic charm of the region. The history dates back over 2,300 years. Originally known by names like Zhaxi (霅溪), Gucheng (菰城), and Wuxing (吴兴), the city has been a significant settlement since ancient times. It was during the Eastern Jin Dynasty that Huzhou began to earn its reputation as a "land of goodness" and a place of "mountain and water clarity," as praised by the famous poet Su Shi. The city is also immortalized in the works of other literary giants like Zhang Zhihe, who wrote of the tranquil scenes of white egrets flying over the peach blossom-filled waters near Xisai Mountain. It has been…- 0
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Tradition Meets Innovation in Guizhou
From Ancient Art to Modern Stage: The Journey of a Peking Opera Performer The art of Peking Opera, a jewel in the crown of Chinese cultural heritage, continues to evolve and adapt in the modern era. This evolution is beautifully exemplified by the recent production "Enlightenment of Wang Yangming," (阳明悟道) a historical Peking Opera that showcases both traditional techniques and innovative approaches to storytelling and performance. The story of this production is intertwined with the personal journey of a dedicated performer, whose life has been shaped by the rich traditions of Chinese opera. Born in 1976 in Kaifeng, Henan Province – a region renowned for its vibrant opera culture – this artist grew up immersed in the world of traditional performance. Encouraged by opera-loving parents and trained by a devoted uncle, he embarked on a path that would lead him from amateur enthusiasm to professional acclaim. After graduating from the Chinese Opera Academy, the young performer faced the challenges of a declining market for traditional opera. Despite temptations to abandon his craft, he persevered, driven by a deep passion for the art form. His dedication was rewarded with accolades and opportunities, including a pivotal meeting with Hou Danmei, the director of the…- 0
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The Intersection of Southern Drama and Contemporary Theater in Quanzhou
In the heart of Quanzhou, a city rich with history, a unique convergence of old and new took place this summer. On the terrace of the historic Liyuan Classical Theater, a group of young theater enthusiasts from all over the country gathered to share their work and discuss their creative processes. Despite the stormy weather brought by Typhoon Gemi, the energy inside remained high as these passionate individuals made last-minute changes to their performances, eager to present their creations. This scene was the culmination of months of preparation, leading up to the "Maritime Silk Road New Space (海丝新空间)" drama incubation program's showcase of six original works at the end of July. This enthusiasm for drama is not new to Quanzhou. Just three months prior, the same terrace hosted 16 esteemed artists from China's opera scene, including three who had won the prestigious Plum Blossom Award twice. These artists, representing over ten ancient and rare forms of Chinese opera, gathered for a one-of-a-kind post-performance salon that lasted deep into the night. This gathering of seasoned artists was part of the larger "Second Quanzhou Southern Drama Week and 2024 National Southern Opera Exhibition," a grand event that spread throughout the ancient city…- 0
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The Towering Dreams of Ancient China's Pagodas
Throughout history, the human spirit has always sought to touch the heavens, and ancient Chinese architecture is no exception. In the skyline of ancient Chinese cities, towering pagodas often dominated the landscape, representing not only spiritual aspirations but also architectural marvels of their time. Among the most significant of these towering structures were the Yongning Temple Pagoda and the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. These awe-inspiring edifices were not just religious monuments; they were the ancient Chinese version of “sky castles,” embodying the dreams and ambitions of a civilization reaching for the skies. The Quest for Height: Yongning Temple Pagoda (永宁寺塔) Pagodas in ancient China were deeply intertwined with Buddhism, a religion that profoundly influenced Chinese culture and architecture. As Buddhism took root in China, it brought with it the concept of the stupa, a mound-like structure originally used in India as a tomb for relics. In China, this simple form evolved into the multi-tiered pagoda, a structure that stretched ever upwards in a symbolic journey towards enlightenment. The Yongning Temple Pagoda, built during the Northern Wei Dynasty, stands as a testament to this quest for height. This nine-story pagoda, constructed primarily of wood, was said to have reached a staggering height…- 0
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Weaving Dreams and Traditions: The Spirit of Xihe's Begging Festival
An Ancient Festival Rooted in the Hearts of Xihe's Women In the lush valleys of Xihe County (西和县) , nestled along the banks of the Western Han River, an age-old tradition comes alive each year between the last day of the sixth lunar month and the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. The Begging Festival is a vibrant celebration of craftsmanship, love, and hope. Its long duration, large scale, high participation, and complete preservation of folk customs are rare in China. This festival is deeply rooted in the folklore and customs of the region, and its cultural connotation is even more soothing. It speaks of the love of nature, the filial piety of the mother and the son, and the awe of all things. Unlike many other festivals that have faded into obscurity or transformed beyond recognition, the Begging Festival of Xihe has preserved its essence. It's a week-long event marked by songs, dances, and various traditional activities that bring together the young and the old, the past and the present. Crafting Futures with Needles and Thread During the festival, young women in Xihe participate in various activities to pray for a happy life in the future. The lyrics…- 0
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When Champions Meet: The Fusion of Sports and Chinese Opera
In a groundbreaking media project, the worlds of Olympic sports and traditional Chinese opera have collided in an unprecedented way. The show, titled Different Strokes, Same Mastery (异曲同“功”), has been captivating audiences since its debut, offering a unique blend of athleticism and artistry. This innovative series, produced by China Media Group’s Arts Program Center, features five Olympic and World Champions who team up with fifteen Chinese opera performers to explore the parallels between six major sports and the skills of traditional opera. Through this cross-disciplinary exchange, the program not only showcases the beauty of both disciplines but also highlights the dedication and perseverance required to excel in these demanding fields. A Meeting of Equals: Sports and Opera Collide The show is divided into six episodes, each lasting 15 minutes, where champions from sports like fencing, diving, and rhythmic gymnastics are paired with opera artists skilled in techniques like "Small Quick Spear," "Cloud Somersault," and "Chair Skills." Among the participants are Olympic fencing champion Zhong Man, diving gold medalist He Chong, archery champion Zhang Juanjuan, gymnastics world champion Zhang Nan, and rhythmic gymnastics world champion Sui Jianshuang. These athletes are joined by talented young opera performers such as Tang Kai, Zhang Huan,…- 0
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Canvas of Time: When Ancient Art Breathes Anew
From Stage to Screen: The Metamorphosis of a Cultural Phenomenon In the realm where traditional artistry meets cutting-edge cinematography, a new cinematic experience is poised to captivate audiences this National Day holiday. "Only This Verdant Hue," (只此青绿) a film adaptation of the critically acclaimed dance-drama of the same name, promises to transport viewers across a millennium into the heart of one of China's most treasured artistic masterpieces. The movie, inspired by the Song Dynasty landscape painting "A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains," (千里江山图) aims to breathe life into the static brushstrokes of this ancient artwork. This painting, a jewel in the crown of the Palace Museum's collection, has been viewed by the public only four times in the past century, shrouding it in an aura of mystery and reverence. As the film's tagline suggests - "Nameless and unsigned, just this one scroll, green for a thousand years, mountains and rivers without end" - the project is an ambitious attempt to unravel the story behind the creation of this monumental work. The narrative follows a young court painter, Xi Meng, as he embarks on the herculean task of capturing the essence of China's vast landscapes on a single scroll. The…- 0
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Tiger-striped Stone Chime: A Stone Carrying a Thousand Years of Cultural Memory
In the vast Chinese civilization, there is a musical instrument known as the "king of chimes", which not only carries the glory of ancient music, but also has been given the reputation of a "singing stone" for its unique artistic charm - this is the tiger-striped stone chime. -This is the Tiger Stripe Stone Chime. Dating back to ancient times, the stone chime, as a crystallization of the wisdom of the ancestors, has been known to perform crisp and melodious melodies with its stone body, which is why it is often referred to as the "music stone" or the "singing stone" in the world. In the profound exhibition hall of the National Museum of China, there is a tiger-striped stone chime, which is honored as "the king of chimes", and it is a witness of history and a treasure of art. This chime has a flat shape, 84 centimeters long, 42 centimeters wide, and only 2.5 centimeters thick, revealing an extraordinary temperament in its lightness. On it, a tiger leaps onto the stone, its eyes wide open and majestic, as if ready to pounce on its prey, the vividness of its shape is breathtaking. The tiger's body has smooth lines,…- 0
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Shandong Handmade: Celebrating Tradition and Innovation at Mount Ni
The 10th Nishan Forum of World Civilizations was held on July 10-11 at Nishan or Mount Ni (尼山) in Qufu, Shandong Province, with the main theme of "Traditional Culture and Modern Civilization". Chinese and foreign guests gathered at the foot of the Nishan Mountain to carry out civilization exchanges and dialogues, strengthen international humanistic exchanges and cooperation. This year's forum held for the first time a sports culture forum, the theme is "Chinese traditional culture and Olympic spirit". IOC President Bach said, "I am glad to learn that the theme of traditional Chinese culture and Olympic spirit has become an important part of the Nishan Forum. When the founder of the modern Olympic movement, Coubertin, revived the Olympic Games, he saw them as a way to build bridges and promote understanding among nations and peoples around the world. The Nishan Forum shares this goal, deepening understanding among the world's civilizations through respectful exchange and dialogue based on the transmission of Confucius' wisdom." The beauty of Global harmony The beauty of harmony lies in combining differences. Participants believe that the Nishan Forum of World Civilizations has become an important platform for practicing global civilization initiatives, promoting the common values of all…- 0
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Mo Yan Uses Stage and Melody to Tell Novel's Unfinished Story
In 2019, after winning the Nobel Prize, Mo Yan volunteered in front of the Shakespeare statue to complete the transition from novelist to playwright in the second half of his life. 2023, the publication and staging of the play Crocodile witnessed an important point in Mo Yan's transition. Since then, Mo Yan's literary creation began to tilt more toward theater, and a "playwright Mo Yan" transformed from a "novelist" gradually came into the public's view. In July 2024, after "Crocodile," "Our Jing Ke," and "Farewell My Concubine," Mo Yan's other two dramatic works, "The Brocade Clothes" and "The Fragrance of Wine," were released by Zhejiang Literature and Art Publishing House-KEY-Can Culture. Among them, "Jin Yi" is Mo Yan won the "Nobel Prize" after five years of hibernation, in 2017 in the publication of the official publication of the first work, marking the beginning of the transition of Mo Yan's creative work, this is the first time to launch a single-volume book. The fragrance of wine" includes "sorghum wine", "sandalwood torture" two plays, is mo yan after thirty years according to his classic novel of the same name re-creation. The Brocade: The first work after the Nobel Prize, the first original…- 0
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A Spicy Touch: Gansu Museum's Unique Cultural Souvenirs
Recently, Gansu Provincial Museum has gained widespread attention on social media, not for a new historical exhibit, but for its innovative cultural merchandise: "spicy hotpot" plush bouquets. This creative venture follows the popularity of their "Bronze Galloping Horse" plush toy, adding a new flavor—literally and figuratively—to their collection. The "spicy hotpot" plush bouquets are modeled after Tianshui spicy hotpot, a local delicacy from Gansu. The set includes six plush items representing various hotpot ingredients such as meatballs, crab sticks, rice cakes, and mushrooms. These plush toys are available in four spice levels: non-spicy, mild, medium, and tongue-numbing. To add to the fun, the collection process mimics an actual hotpot experience, where customers choose their "ingredients," interact with staff about their spice preferences, receive a special "sauce," and then watch as their order is "cooked." A Cultural Connection through Play The museum's head of cultural creativity explains that the "spicy hotpot" series is part of the "Gansu Local Specialty" IP, aiming to blend local cultural elements with playful designs. This new line of plush toys has quickly become a hit among visitors, resonating with people's fondness for local delicacies and the whimsical charm of plush toys. One of the most endearing…- 0
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On Top of the Pyramid: The Grandeur of Ancient Egypt
The Shanghai Museum is set to captivate audiences with an unprecedented exhibition titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opening on July 18, 2024. This monumental showcase, part of the museum's "Dialogue with the World" series, marks the fourth such exhibition and promises to be the largest and most comprehensive display of ancient Egyptian artifacts ever seen in Asia. Co-hosted by the Shanghai Museum and Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, and supported by China's National Cultural Heritage Administration and Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, this exhibition is an extraordinary collaboration. With special backing from the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism and Shanghai Media Group, the event will offer a rare glimpse into the mysteries of ancient Egypt. The Grand Reveal At a preview event on May 20, 2024, key figures from both China and Egypt gathered to celebrate this historic cultural exchange. Among the attendees were Ismail, Secretary-General of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities; Moamen, Head of International Exhibitions at Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities; and top representatives from Shanghai's cultural and tourism sectors. The preview was hosted by Tang Shifen, Secretary of the Party Committee of the Shanghai Museum, and attended…- 0
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