Had the chance to visit the art district today. The reason for it being so unfortunately named was that it did use to be a factory area under Communist rule. Then it was used by the army. And then it was left dilapidated until penniless artists found it as a place to showcase their art. The place turned mainstream as more and more visiting politicians graced the place with their presence.
Whilst I had expected it to be fascinating - it is more so than expected. Whilst the art that I did see today was fairly tame compared to the other, much more confrontational modern Chinese art I had seen offshore, it was a sombre reminder of the China that I am living in today. China is large. Its people spread the world - there are so many of us, in some way or other, have something to do with China. Its history is long, some celebrated, some dark. But the China that is today? I don't blame the Chinese for experiencing some sort of identity crisis. The need to be patriotic, and proud of where they have come from. But then now to where? And how? How much longer will it take?
If you're in Beijing and sick of seeing temples, palaces and squares - this is a refreshing look at (modern) Chinese culture.
Ceiling of one of an ex-factory / now art gallery. The inscription essentially says "Long live Chairman Mao" (the saying was previously reserved for Emperors of the Middle Kingdom)
One of the "exhibitions" - completely trippy, walking into smoke and lights - you lose sense of your bearing and direction. Almost felt like vertigo.
Some graffiti
Piglets for sale
Brooches for sale - some had modern Chinese sayings and some old Communist propaganda
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