People visit the Fantastic Beijing Fair in London on Feb 1, 2025. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
The Fantastic Beijing Fair opened in London on Feb 1, bringing the vibrancy of Spring Festival and the rich cultural heritage of Beijing to the UK capital while fostering cultural exchange between China and the UK.
Organized by the Communication University of China, the event features art exhibitions, digital media and interactive experiences, blending Beijing's unique cultural identity with the festive spirit of the Chinese New Year.
At the heart of the fair are 35 exquisite paintings and calligraphy works, crafted by doctoral students and faculty from the university's Chinese Painting Research Institute. From ink-wash paintings to couplets and intricate seal carvings, each piece reflects a deep appreciation for traditional culture and a modern artistic vision, presenting the charm of Chinese aesthetics.
Also on display are video presentations such as "This is Beijing" and "Beijing Central Axis", highlighting the city's blend of tradition and modernity.
[Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
A special Beijing-themed cultural and creative zone adds to the festive atmosphere, with red lanterns, Chinese knot decorations and intricate paper-cuttings of the Chinese character "fu" (good fortune and happiness), inviting visitors to engage in hands-on Spring Festival traditions.
To reach a wider audience, the fair also offers an online exhibition, featuring high-definition images, multilingual guided tours and in-depth cultural insights, providing an immersive experience for viewers across the UK and Europe.
Spring Festival couplets, red lanterns and other Chinese New Year decorations. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
