On October 13, in Beijing, the “Ancient Charm of Qilu: Most Memorable Weizhou” cultural and artistic exhibition officially opened at the Li Keran Art Institute in Songzhuang.
This exhibition is divided into two main sections: “Carving the Seasons, Enriching Life” and “Treasured Beauty, Exquisite Environment.” Its aim is to immerse visitors in the tangible cultural artifacts, allowing them to experience the intangible aesthetic and spiritual essence of Weifang. Through this, guests can appreciate the city’s unique folk customs and distinct cultural characteristics.
The “Carving the Seasons, Enriching Life” section showcases 22 representative works of woodblock New Year paintings from Yangjiabu in Weifang, alongside 34 pieces from 17 major New Year painting production areas across the country. Additionally, it features 20 innovative creations including ink New Year paintings and award-winning pieces. Meanwhile, the “Treasured Beauty, Exquisite Environment” section presents significant intangible cultural heritage works such as Weifang kites, nut carvings, and redwood inlaid silver. It also includes replicas of historical artifacts related to cultural figures like Liu Yong and Zheng Banqiao, original works by young calligrapher Liu Xiaoqing, and local specialties like Zhucheng green tea and Qingzhou hawthorn.
Liu Xiaoqing, affectionately known as the “Most Beautiful Wheelchair Sister,” shared her journey into the world of calligraphy, detailing how, after an accident left her disabled, this art form opened a window to a new life.
The event also featured a series of engaging activities like guqin performances, exhibitions by inheritors of cultural traditions, stamping experiences, and tastings of local products, all of which captivated the audience. The diverse and rich displays of Weifang’s cultural heritage provided attendees with an auditory, visual, and flavorful celebration of intangible cultural assets.
During the Weifang cultural and tourism promotion segment, a representative from the Weifang Cultural and Tourism Bureau presented the “Weifang Cultural Tourism Ambassador” certificate to Zhang Taiyuan, a host of CCTV’s weather forecast. Cultural ambassador Sha Ning eloquently promoted Weifang’s tourism resources, sharing the depth of the city’s history and culture, while local singer Chen Jiguang performed the song “My Family’s Name is Weifang.”
It was noted that the event was guided by the China Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Association and organized by the Weifang Cultural and Tourism Bureau, Weifang Disabled Persons’ Federation, Li Keran Art Institute, and the Weifang Party Committee for Flowing Party Members in Beijing, with exhibitions running until October 21.
