Experience of Beijing’s culture By Russian Young Artists

With the  aim to promote youth art exchanges and enhance friendship between China and Russia, a six-member delegation of Russian young artists visited Beijing from 6^th August to 10^th August to attend the awarding ceremony and opening ceremony of the “Colorful World” China-Russia Youth Painting Exhibition. The delegation members received the awards on behalf of the winners at the ceremony.

Mrs. Wang Yanxia, Vice President and Senior Councilor of the BPAFFC, met with the delegation on 7^th August. She introduced the BPAFFC’s history, basic functions, and exchange programs with Russia. Wang noted that both countries have a long history and a glorious culture, and people-to-people exchanges play an irreplaceable role in enhancing friendship. She said that the BPAFFC is willing to, together with the artists, serve as a bridge connecting the two countries and promote art exchanges and youth exchanges, thus making greater contributions to building the China-Russia comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and enhancing people-to-people bond.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and the Great Patriotic War of the Soviet Union. On their arrival day in Beijing, the delegation visited the Lugou Bridge, the historic site of the 7^th July Incident of 1937. The Russian visitors were amazed at the Lugou Bridge’s rich history and its exquisite stone lion carvings featuring artistry of six different historical periods. They were deeply touched by the stories of unwavering courage and collective sacrifice recounted by this historic site, the enduring spirit of resilience and perseverance, as well as the message of remembering history and cherishing peace.

During their stay in Beijing, the delegation took a tour of the Basic Exhibition of Chinese Arts and Crafts: Prosperity Nourished by Chinese Culture at the Chinese Traditional Culture Museum. With a history spanning five millennia, Chinese arts and crafts embody the ideas, wisdom, charm, and essence of Chinese culture, nurturing a deep-seated sense of optimism, confidence, and ingenuity among Chinese people. The exhibition, featuring exquisite bronzeware, jade carvings, lacquerware, embroidery, and ceramics, provided the delegation with a stunning visual feast of traditional craftsmanship.

On Qianmen Street, the Russian guests saw a modern “dangdang” bus with a vintage appearance which conjures memories half a century ago. From the Zhengyang Gate, the delegation overlooked the Beijing Central Axis, the most complete central axis architectural complex in China, experiencing firsthand the beauty of classical Chinese architecture. They visited World Cultural Heritage sites like the Temple of Heaven and Mutianyu Great Wall, gaining a deeper appreciation of Beijing’s profound heritage and its diverse and splendid culture. The delegation also tasted the Beijing-style shaomai (or steamed dumplings) at the time-honored restaurant Beijing Do It True, and explored Yuan Sheng Hao’s traditional brewing techniques at the Erguotou Museum. The distinctive Beijing cuisine culture left a lasting impression on the Russian guests.

While they were in Beijing, the delegation also attended the opening ceremony of the “Joy Dancing Beijing” 11th Culture and Art Exchange Week of International Youth and enjoyed the fantastic performances presented by Chinese and foreign youths.