Shouan Town, located in Southwest China’s Chengdu, recently became a hub of cultural exchange as it hosted an International Public Art Symposium. This event was a significant component of the 2023 Chengdu Europe Culture Season and was themed “The Way of Harmony.” The symposium aimed to celebrate Chinese culture and its philosophy of harmony, while also focusing on the concepts of harmonizing with nature, art, and transforming decay into magic.
Shu Xingchuan, the chief planner of the event and an associate professor at Southwest Jiaotong University, highlighted that the symposium was designed to delve deeper into these concepts. Over the past five years, the symposium has managed to create a lasting impact both domestically and internationally. It has been instrumental in establishing an art park, which now showcases 53 art pieces created by 51 artists from various countries, including China, Spain, and France.
Xu Zhenglong, a professor from Tsinghua University, emphasized that the art collections and discussions held during the symposium have successfully ignited public interest in cultural passion. Moreover, they have enriched spaces with professional knowledge and served as a powerful example of how public art can play a crucial role in revitalizing rural areas.
The symposium’s theme, “The Way of Harmony,” is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of balance and harmony in all aspects of life. This philosophy was reflected in the artworks displayed and the discussions held during the event. Artists and scholars from around the world gathered to exchange ideas and showcase their work, all of which resonated with the theme of harmony.
The event also highlighted the importance of public art in rural revitalization. Rural areas often face challenges related to decay and abandonment. However, by introducing public art into these spaces, it is possible to breathe new life into them and transform them into vibrant, culturally rich areas. This, in turn, can attract visitors and stimulate local economies.
The International Public Art Symposium in Shouan Town was more than just an art exhibition. It was a celebration of culture, a platform for international exchange, and a demonstration of the transformative power of public art. As part of the 2023 Chengdu Europe Culture Season, it contributed to strengthening cultural ties between China and Europe and showcased the potential of art as a tool for positive change.
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