Finding Beijing’s Hidden Art in Day-to-Day Life
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“There is so much traffic!” … “Why is it so hot in Beijing?!” We all love to complain about the city, but in this hustle and bustle we often ignore the artistic side of Beijing. Art is everywhere around Beijing. Art is fluid and ambiguous, and as someone once said, “Art lies in the eyes of the beholder, and everyone has their own interpretation.”
Beijing is undeniably beautiful and never fails to light the bulb of creativity. The art lies in the interpretation, but sometimes it is hidden behind the chaos, the monotony of day-to-day life, and the proud skyscrapers, and it’s always worth it to lift the curtains of this hidden treasure of art.
Every day I walk out on the streets of Beijing I encounter nuances of the city’s art that astonish me. It amazes me because most of the time these things appear very ordinary, but they are still extraordinary. Let me share glimpses of three everyday places around Beijing that carve out a new definition for art.
First on the list is Liangmahe. You’re living under a rock if you haven’t been to explore this peaceful spot in Beijing. I found this place very artistically appealing because of its magnificent scenery. The river boasts its graceful flow, while Beijingers complement its beauty through their jovial presence. Especially during the rose pink dusk light of the sunset, the river appears no less than a canvas painted with the glittering of alluring elements. The colorful fluorescent light around the trees, the fleet of enthusiastic kayakers, the melody of the street concerts, the lively moves of the local dance troupe… It’s always refreshing to just walk and cherish the ornamental nature of the Liangma River, making it a spectacular spot on a hot summer evening to admire the artistic side of Beijing.
Next on the list is the one and only Wanjing SOHO building. What were your initial thoughts when you first looked at it? When I came across this building, my first words were “Oh, this looks like a mountain with terrace farming on it.” I wasn’t wrong. The design resembles many of the Longji rice terraces in Guangxi province. The architecture of the building is certainly commendable. At the same time, it is very ambiguous – different people have different opinions about the architecture, making it artistically pleasing! Next time you see the building, pause for a minute and interpret its creative structure. Also, don’t forget to snap a picture!
Last but not least, the third place might seem a bit strange to some people, but I think it’s still uniquely artistic. Have you ever traveled on the public buses of Beijing? I believe there is an art of unspoken storytelling, and that’s what the faces, the gestures, and the identities of the strangers narrate on the bus ride. It’s strangely soothing to just sit and listen to the sound of traffic, a lullaby hummed by grandparents to calm their grandkids, and the swift sound of gusts of wind entering through the window. Try it yourself – just admire the hidden art in the monotony of a simple bus ride on a hectic work day.
One thing I want my readers to take away from this article is the power of imagination to chase the hidden art around Beijing. The city of Beijing will never disappoint you, especially when you’re on the trail to explore art. Art is everywhere around the city, but what matters is your perspective. The three places I shared with you today might or might not have pleased you, but don’t let your eyes miss the hidden art in the trivial-yet-significant instances that are part of your day-to-day life in Beijing.
Images: Uni You, Pexels
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