Since its discovery in 1974, the Terracotta Army has become almost as emblematic of China as the Great Wall, or the Forbidden City. But it’s a long way to Xi’an, and the excavation (though stunning) is crowded and difficult to reach. So a chance to see treasures from the tomb in air-conditioned comfort here in Beijing is not to be missed.

A kneeling terracotta archer is one of the stars of the exhibition

Everlasting Like the Heavens is an exhibition at Tsinghua University Art Museum which brings to the capital extraordinary finds from Shaanxi Province. Under different names, Xi’an was capital of the Qin, Sui, and Tang dynasties, so the region is rich in cultural heritage. The famous clay army was buried with the first Emperor to unite China, Qinshihuang. As well as one of the Terracotta Warriors, a kneeling archer, the exhibtion features bronze dragons, paintings of horses, and beautiful pottery figures of the plump women beloved of the Tang era.

Tang dynasty pottery figures

In fact, the Warrior is not the greatest treasure on display. The “He Zun” is a bronze vessel dating to the Western Zhou dynasty. making it around three thousand years old. As well as its artistic merit, the characters carved on it include 中國 (Zhōngguó, “Middle Kingdom”), making it the oldest artifact inscribed with the modern name for China. It was dug up by a farming family in 1963, who used it for food storage, and later sold it to a waste center for RMB 30. Fortunately, one of the workers at the center recognized the vessel’s value, and contacted the local museum. It is now on a list of 64 items of such historical and cultural importance that they are never permitted to leave Chinese soil.

The He Zun bronze features the oldest inscription using the term “Zhongguo”, Middle Kingdom

The exhibition runs until December 17, and should not be missed by anybody interested in Chinese culture.

Everlasting Like the Heavens, till Dec 17

All ages. RMB 60, age 3-6 RMB 30, under 3 years old free. 9am-5pm, no entry after 4.30pm. Tsinghua University Art Museum, NO. 1, Tsinghua University Campus, Haidian District. (6278 1012) www.artmuseum.tsinghua.edu.cn. 海淀区清华园1号清华大学校内邮.

Photos: www.chinadaily.com.cn, www.artmuseum.tsinghua.edu.cn, 幽灵巴尼 via Wikimedia Commons

At beijingkids we’re always keen to let you know about opportunities to share quality art with your kids, whether it’s contemporary work or celebrated classics. After all, there’s more to life than smartphones and shopping malls. So an exhibition of work by Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci and his circle should be a definite recommendation. Only 17 works worldwide are confidently attributed to the hand of Leonardo, and to have two of them in Beijing would be a real coup.

But there’s a catch. The exhibition, at the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) until December 8, has been accused of presenting fakes. This criticism may be accused of cultural snobbery from westerners (and your correspondent had a previous run-in with CAFA when I wrote a piece for our sister publication The Beijinger, in which I not-entirely-frivolously described a work on display there by a CAFA professor as “the worst painting in the world ever.”) However the claims have come from Chinese art experts, and have been reported by state publications China Daily and Global Times.

At the heart of the controversy is Nicola Barbatelli, director of the Museo delle Antiche Genti di Lucania, who claimed to have discovered a lost Leonardo self-portrait, known as the “Lucan Portrait”. Who painted it and whom it represents are still hotly debated in the art world, though supporters point to fingerprint evidence and what may be Leonardo’s writing on the back. The Lucan Portrait is one of the works exhibited, as is a Mary Magdalene generally accepted as the work of Leonardo and one of his students.

A painting of Mary Magdalene, by Leonardo da Vinci and a pupil

However You Yong, an influential art blogger, took to Weibo to blast the quality and authenticity of the other works on display.

“This exhibition is a blatant mockery of Da Vinci, his times, and the general public. The showpieces fail to convincingly support the theme, and they are a revelry of fake paintings and imitations,” he said.

The response from CAFA was measured and careful.

“Controversies surrounding epic paintings are not rare in the world. For example, industry insiders are still bickering about who is the real painter of the Song Dynasty landscape scroll, A Thousand Lis of Mountains and Rivers,” Zhang Zikang, director of the CAFA Art Museum, told China Daily. “In recent years, studies on Da Vinci in Italy and other places in the world have been revolving around his great artistic genius. However, after I viewed the exhibition, what impressed me was that Da Vinci is a great artist, but not a great teacher, as his paintings are far better than his students’. This discovery affords modern education a salutary lesson,” Zhang commented.

If you want to judge for yourself, then admission to the gallery is a very reasonable RMB 15 (RMB 10 concessions), children under 120cm are free, and there are several other exhibitions currently on display.

Leonardo and His Outstanding Circle, till Dec 8

All ages. RMB 15 (RMB 10 concessions, free under 120cm). Tuesday-Sunday, 9.30am-5.30pm (last ticket sale 5pm). CAFA Art Museum. No. 8 Hua Jia Di Nan Street, Chaoyang District. (6477 1575) www.cafamuseum.org/en. 朝阳区花家地南街8号.

Photos: Nico Barbatelli via Wikimedia Commons, chinadaily.com.cn

The weekend is approaching, and it seems every parent is already on overdrive putting together a plan that will ensure the kids have unforgettable Children’s Day moments. In addition to some great family events and creative things to do this weekend, here are more events happening that you don’t want to miss in your Children’s Day weekend plans.

Food Events

Ice Cream Festival, Jun 1
All ages. If you want to celebrate Children’s Day with yummy ice cream, cakes, and a lot of joyful activities, join the Ice Cream Festival this Saturday. RMB 268 for each family (2 adults and 1 child), children under 4 are free, additional children at RMB 60. 2-10pm. Shangri-La Hotel, Beijing (6841 2211)

Dragon Boat Festival Fragrant Pouch and Zongzi Making Workshop, Jun 2
All ages. Learn how to make your own traditional Chinese-style sticky rice dumpling (粽子，Zòngzi) and fragrant pouch this Children’s Day. Celebrate culture and traditions with fun!  Free of charge. 9.30-11.30am. F2 Library of United Family New Hope Oncology Center. #9-11 Jiangtai Xi Lu, Chaoyang District, Beijing.

Sarika Cooking Classes, Jun 1
Food is an essential part of a culture. So to experience and understand a bit better different cultures without having to travel far, why not learn its cuisine. Here they offer authentic Indian cooking classes with wide range of recipes , vegetarian, non vegetarians, sweets, and Indo-Chinese. RMB 300 (early bird tickets), RMB 350 (on door). 10-12am. Shuangjing (More info please contact Sarikadhami).

Outdoor Play and Fun

Beijing Sino 10’s Rugby Tournament, Jun 1

All ages. Rugby teams from all over China are attending this event and will be competing for different prizes. The event is a family-oriented day, with plenty of rugby to watch and a DJ sponsored by Aurora playing throughout to get people psyched about the festivities. Expect plenty of food and beverage vendors, including Bistro 108, Ping Dynasty, Aurora, and beer sponsored by Paddy O’Sheas. For easy transport, there will be a spectator’s bus leaving Paddy O’Sheas at 10am to bring people to the pitch. 9am-5pm. Dulwich College Beijing, Main Campus, Legend Garden. Men‘s club contact Wolff 186 1202 0481, women’s clubs contact Alicia 135 8183 0512)

Children’s Day Scrimmage at Lacrosse Academy, Jun 1
If you get tired of indoor activities to celebrate Children’s Day, you might want to check out the scrimmage at Lacrosse Academy this Saturday to enjoy the family fun. Experienced kids preferred. Inexperienced kids can still come and watch, as there will be the Capital Cup which is a 14 team tournament with 4 youth teams. Free. 5-7pm. Chaoyang Park Field 2.

Back to Childhood Play, Jun 1
All ages. At this event, the host will prepare food and drinks that people used to eat when they were kids, while sharing childhood stories. There will also be the “the blind man” game, which you will find out about on site that day. RMB 20. 3-5pm.Chaoyang Park. (Wechat: 187 0120 0107)

Charity and Literature Events

Bring More Love to the People at Cravings Restaurant, Jun 1
All ages. This Saturday, Cravings Restaurant and Kids Planet Hutong (KPH) will host a special event to celebrate Children’s Day. They will be raising money for the father of a KPH teacher, He Pingsun (何平孙), who is currently hospitalized and will be undergoing surgery.  All profits from the sales, as well as that made by Cravings on June 1, will be going to the family to help cover their costs. For more details click here. 11am-2pm. Cravings Restaurant, 50 meters west of the South Gate of Park Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing (186 1406 0601).

Safari Time Songs at The Bookworm, May 31-Jun 1
Age 3-18 months. Young ones love singing and rhymes! It stimulates their brains and development, and it’s also great fun for mamas, papas and other caregivers to see them so happy. If you’ve got a 3-18 month-old child, bring them to The Bookworm every Saturday to take them on a fun safari as he/she learns songs and rhymes from around the world, which you can also practice at home. They have “Children’s Day” specials this coming Friday and Saturday. RMB 80 per child. 10.30-11.30am. The Bookworm. (6503 2050, order@beijingbookworm.com)

Roundabout Book Fair at BSB Sanlitun, Jun 1-2
All ages. Summer is coming!  It’s time to get your summer holiday reading ready, so come and buy some books from the Roundabout Book Fair. Also, three adult fiction books, of which there are many, will only set you back RMB 25! Open to public. 10am-3pm. The British School of Beijing, Sanlitun. 5 Xiliujie, Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing.

Exhibitions at Tsinghua University Art Museum

Also, for the upcoming Children’s Day, children up to and including 14 years of age will have free admission for regular tickets. The first 200 children visiting the museum will have one collection postcard for each person that day. Here are some our favorite exhibitions on Children’s Day for you!

The Supports/Surfaces Movement: Within and Around, until Aug 20
All ages.There will be 75 artworks by 15 artists representing the Supports/Surfaces Movement on display in this exhibition. This group exhibition aims to present the artistic movement and great artistic effervescence in France, which emerged in the mid and late 1960s. All ages. Free (kids under 14 years old), RMB 20 (adults). Floor 1, Exhibition Hall 1,2,3, Tsinghua University Art Museum.

National Treasures from Afghanistan at the Cultural Crossroads of East and West, until Jun 23
All ages.The over 230 Afghan treasures displayed in this exhibition were all unearthed prior to the 1979 invasion of the Soviet Union into Afghanistan. They are divided into four units, which are respectively archaeological excavation sites of Tepe Fullol, the ancient city ruins of Ai Khanoum, Tillya Tepe, and the ancient city ruins of Begram. All ages. Free (kids under 14 years old), RMB 20 (adults). Floor 3. Tsinghua University Art Museum.

Painting and Calligraphy, permanent exhibition
All ages. More than 90 pieces from selected collections of Chinese painting and calligraphy art since the Ming Dynasty. Through this exhibition, you will get chance to know more about the history and development of Chinese painting and calligraphy. All ages. Free (kids under 14 years old), RMB 20 (adults). Floor 4. Exhibition Hall 10.Tsinghua University Art Museum.

 Photos: Courtesy of Chapter (featured image) and event organizers

Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids’ social platforms!

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page. 

Morning Cuppa by British Club Beijing, May 14
China may have invented tea, but the British definitely invented the cuppa! At this month’s cuppa, the British Club Beijing will be mixing it up a bit with a brief warm-up from Eris Fitness as an introduction to Fascial stretching and how it can energize you and help relieve stiffness and joint pain. So come and enjoy a light brunch and prosecco, win exciting prizes in a fabulous raffle, mingle, make new friends, and enjoy! All ages. RMB 150. Scan the QR code on the poster to register. 10am-noon. The Westin Beijing Chaoyang.

Relationship Workshop, May 14
Life coach Caneisha Berry conducts a workshop on May 14 to empower couples and help them create stronger and healthier relationships. She will discuss the truth about relationships, give tips on communicating effectively, and help you understand the reason behind disagreements. Adults. RMB 300 (early bird price before May 12), RMB 350 (regular price). Price includes workshop, workbook, and a free coaching session scheduled after the event. 6-9pm. The Bookworm.

i(COLOUR) – DCB’s Super Fun Colour Run, May 17
Be doused in happy summer colors! Join Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) on May 17 for i(COLOUR), the school’s super fun color run! Run, walk, or jog with friends and family, throw color, listen to music, and take part in special mini activities. Food, drinks, and more color will be available on site, and all proceeds go to support student STEM projects at DCB. All ages. RMB 100 (includes a branded event tee, two packets of color, and admission). Dulwich College Beijing. (rsvp@dulwich-beijing.cn)

Elisabeth Koch Millinery Hat Making Workshop, May 17
China’s only classically-trained milliner, Elisabeth Koch is conducting another hat-making workshop this week. Bring your children and come on over to Sunny Dental Clinic in Shine Hills to create a fashionable designer headpiece from scratch. All ages. RMB 500 (includes materials and hat box). 10am. Sunny Dental Clinic, Shine Hills. (WeChat ID: amazinghats, 15611224937)

IMC Sports First Aid Training, May 17
If you are doing sports, recreationally or professionally, as an athlete or a coach or audience, the International Medical Center (IMC) Beijing welcomes you to this course led by Elite Squash Academy to learn first aid techniques in case of sports injuries. Adults. RMB 300 per person. Scan the QR code on the poster to register. 1-4pm. The City, F2 West Tower, World Financial Center. (play@elite-squash.com)

京Sing-A Capella Concert, May 17
Jing Sing is a vibrant, long-standing international a cappella group in Beijing. With an eclectic mix of songs from swing to pop to Disney favorites, Jing Sing has entertained Beijing audiences for the past 5 years. Be cheered by Jing Sing’s renditions of contemporary songs as well as old classics from bands such as the Temptations at their concert at The Bookworm on May 17. Adults. RMB 60 (entrance only). Scan the QR code on the poster to register. 8-10pm. The Bookworm.

The Forbidden City Tour, May 17 and 30
Beijing’s premier tour operator, Bespoke Travel Company, is organizing a trip to the Forbidden City on May 17 and 30. It’s no surprise Beijing’s most fascinating sight, has inspired an Oscar-winning movie and countless Chinese soap operas: there’s enough murder, betrayal, and intrigue woven into its 500-year story to fuel hundreds more. With its rich cast of characters – concubines, court officials, eunuchs, the Emperor – and wildly changing fortunes (to say nothing of its stunning architecture and symbolism), this is one Beijing bucket list sight you need a professional to help you appreciate. Ages 12+. RMB 385 (including entrance ticket and tour guide). 2-5pm. Participants should bring their passport to enter the Forbidden City. Meeting point at TRB Hutong, Forbidden City East Gate.

Montessori Nights: “Montessori Elementary Curriculum in a Nutshell” Workshop, May 17 and 31
Blossom Montessori is conducting four late afternoon workshops to introduce their elementary Montessori program to prospective parents and families. The following topics will be discussed in the workshops: a day in an elementary Montessori class; movements and learning; an overview of their Mathematics curriculum; and another overview of their Language curriculum. Adults. Free but reservation required. 5.30-7pm. Blossom Montessori. (135 8188 7792, admissions@blossom-edu.com)

BIBA Family Fair 2019, May 18
Bring the family along for a day of lively entertainment to Beijing International Bilingual Academy (BIBA) on May 18, when they celebrate their annual Family Fair for the community. The fair includes pony rides, water activities, sports, a fashion world, and music, plus a food court along with many more entertaining features. This is a day for the whole community to enjoy. All ages. Free admission, but there will be a charge to buy vouchers to join games and activities. 9.30am-1.30pm. Beijing International Bilingual Academy.

Ivy Education Group’s Unity Day 2019, May 18
Ivy Education Group proudly brings a spectacular afternoon sure to entertain, energize, and inspire the Beijing community. At their Unity Day, there will be everything including a raffle corner, bouncy castles, arts and crafts, STEM, sports activities, carnival games, face painting, and more! Non-stop entertainment on stage such as Daystar’s Got Talent, an acrobat show, and three live bands including Beijing’s award-winning favorite “The Hunters” will keep your feet tapping. Then there’s mouthwatering food to satisfy all cravings. All ages. Free admissions and activities. 3-8pm. Daystar Academy Beigao Campus. (jaw@daystarchina.cn)

The Children’s House Art Exhibition, May 18
The Children’s House students will showcase their expression, interpretation, and development as individuals and artists at the school’s very first art exhibition. The works will display a diverse range of skills and techniques, creativity, and dedication. During the exhibition, an interactive art work inspired by Japanese artist Kusama Yayoi will be displayed, offering children and parents to create a collaborative piece of art that will be auctioned for charity. All ages. Free. 9-11.30am. The Children’s House Oceanwide Campus. (RSVP: 8556 4611, info-oceanwide@montessoribeijing.com)

The Beijing Flea Market Spring Edition, May 18
Beijing’s one-stop shop, the Beijing Flea Market, is back this springtime on May 18 at noon-6pm at Tech Temple Sanlitun. Shop around and find great deals from more than 40 vendors with the best local, independent design and crafts from both established and emerging makers in Beijing. All ages. Free. Noon-6pm. Tech Temple Sanlitun.

Mad Dogs China Fundraiser, May 18
Join Mad Dogs China for their annual fundraiser in support of Shepherds Field Children’s Village. Your ticket gets you into a concert with more than 10 bands, tons of kids activities, Bitburger and Chimay beer, plus a chili cook-off, and there are fabulous raffle prizes to be won. All ages. By donation. From 1pm. Beijing Riviera.

BlackEXPO Africa Week Edition, May 19
BlackEXPO organizes another edition of this booming market that connects and celebrates the black and African diaspora in Beijing. The May event is organized by Kente and Silk, and expect world-class vendors, amazing performers, and a transporting atmosphere. Adults. RMB 30. Buy tickets here. 4-10pm. 27 Yuan, 27 Neiwubu Street, Dongcheng District. 东城区内务部街27号

Rumble in the Jumble – Buddha’s Birthday, May 19
This month’s edition of the expat-favorite bazaar Rumble in the Jumble will be transcendental as they mark the birthday of Buddha on May 19 at Modernista. Come join the Rumble team and an array of vendors with products, services, and food items that will lead you into pleasure and harmony! All ages. Free admission. Noon-6pm. Modernista, Baochao Hutong.

Cultural Keys: Sugar Art Workshop, May 19
Chinese sugar art – sugar blowing and sugar painting – has been a staple folk art at markets and fairs for hundreds of years. Both can be eaten but are usually just bought for fun! Join Cultural Keys at Culture Yard on May 19 and learn how to use sugar to create beautiful pieces of edible art in a workshop suitable for the whole family. Ages 8+. RMB 188 (adults), RMB 158 (children). 2-5pm. Culture Yard.

“Run to the Beat” Musical Marathon in the Ming Tombs Scenic Area, May 19
Run to the Beat Musical Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K will take place in the Ming Tombs Reservoir Scenic Area in Changping District on May 19, 2019. Live bands and DJs will be playing on course to cheer for the runners. The music party continues at the center stage after crossing the finish line. Ages 16+. RMB 248 (half marathon), RMB 178 (5k), RMB 218 (10k). Register here. Starts 8am. Ming Tombs.

Finding Ways to Be Eco-friendly, May 19
Join this workshop with Natalie Bennett at the Goethe-Institute and learn simple things you can do right now to reduce your personal carbon footprint. Participants must come willing and able to make real change to their personal habits, so check at the link for the screening questions. Visit this link for more info. Adults. Free but registration required. 11am-3pm. Goethe-Institut, 1/F, Bldg C, Haixing Mansion, southwest corner of Haidian Zhonglu and Haidian Nanjie Intersection, Haidian District. 海淀区海淀中路和海淀南街十字路口西南角海兴大厦C座1层

The Many-Faced Fan: Game of Thrones Costume and Viewing Party at Caravan (Season 8 Finale), May 20
Game of Thrones fans in Beijing, hear ye! You think it matters who sits on the Iron Throne? If so, come in with your entire GOT regalia to Caravan and join other fans for a costume and viewing party of epic proportions! The Sounds of the Seven band will enchant everyone with haunting tracks of the series during the party! Join the other fans to mark the glorious end of this TV series. Ages 18+. RMB 30 (for attendees in GOT costume), RMB 50 (at the door). Price includes a welcome beer from Vedett or a soft drink. Buy your tickets here. 6.30-10.30pm. Caravan. (WeChat ID: anp3rd)

WAB Fun Fair, May 25
Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) will be hosting a series of community events with endless amounts of entertainment and activities going on. Tiger Field turns into a wild theme park of inflatable play areas, water games, and activities. Sponsored by the Parent Link community, this is the perfect time for younger children and families to enjoy some fun in the sun while staying cool. Make sure that children are wearing water-friendly clothes and shoes, and a hat and sunglasses might be a good idea, too! For a complete list of activities, check out this link. All ages. 3-6pm. Western Academy of Beijing.

Piyesta Kultura: The Kusina ni Kabayan Philippine Culture Festival, Jun 1
Celebrate the bright colors of Philippine culture… in Beijing! Filipino community group Kusina ni Kabayan, together with Pan Pacific Beijing, invite everyone to Piyesta Kultura 2019, a festival where everything is more fun. Indulge in native and tropical treats, revel in the festivities that include a karaoke sing-off challenge and a cultural pageant, and join the Filipino community in Beijing in celebrating their 121st Independence Day! All ages. RMB 178 (includes 4 hrs of selected free-flow drinks from 11am to 3pm and a food voucher worth RMB 20), free for kids below 6. 10am-6pm. Pan Pacific Beijing, 2 Huayuan St., Xidan, Xicheng District. (WeChat ID: Kusina-ni-Kabayan) 

Photos: Pixabay (featured image), courtesy of event organizers

Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids’ social platforms!

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page. 

The Bookworm Literary Festival 2019: Stress in the City, Mar 25
Enoch Li, the author of Stress in the City: Playing Your Way Out of Depression, is appearing at the Bookworm on Monday, March 25 as part of The Bookworm Literary Festival 2019. Li will talk about her journey from burning out at the top of the corporate ladder to living a more balanced lifestyle and embracing her inner child. Adults. RMB 60. Register here. 6-8pm. The Bookworm.

March Open Days at YCIS Beijing, Mar 26, 28
Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) invites parents to attend their Early Childhood Education Open Day on March 26 and visit the school’s Learning Communities. On March 28, parents can discover the unique Learning Community model in Primary and Secondary schools, the integrated Chinese program, and how the curriculum and teaching prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century. Adults. Free admission. 9-11am. RSVP here.

Mindful Parenting Intro Session: Through the Calm and the Chaos, Mar 26
Learn mindfulness-based techniques to help you pause and calm down rather than react and lose it at your kids. This English-language session is led by certified mindfulness teacher and masters of Marriage and Family Therapy graduate Masooma Kachelo. Adults. RMB 100. Register here. 10-11.30am. Roundabout Boutique.

Blogging in Beijing’s Quarterly Meet-up and Networking Series: “Standout Stories”, Mar 28
Social media spaces are already congested with compelling narratives. How will you make your story stand out? The Blogging in Beijing WeChat group invites everyone to their quarterly networking event on March 28 at Lincey Italian Restaurant & Cafe. In this month’s free gathering, we move on to the strategies you can use to make your stories stand out in the already-congested social media spaces. The speakers include the Beijinger‘s Kyle Mullin and marketing professional Miguel Roberg. Ages 18+. Free to attend (but registration is needed as there are only 25 seats). 6.30-9pm. Lincey Italian Restaurant & Cafe. For more inquiries, contact Andy Penafuerte on WeChat (ID: anp3rd).

Pauline’s Cuisine: Protein Power, Mar 29
Want to bulk up or just looking to add a little more protein to your diet? Pauline’s Cuisine has the class for you. Learn to make fresh ricotta, chickpea salad, a frittata with spinach, honey sesame tofu, and sweet cashew dip, and then sit down to lunch on the delicious food you’ve made. Adults. RMB 420. 10am-1pm. Pauline’s Cuisine, Lido. (WeChat ID: paulus155)

Artistic Encounter with Filipino Artist Jensen Moreno at Joy EL International Academy, Mar 30
Joy EL International Academy, in cooperation with The Filipino Teachers in China, presents the fourth TFT (The Filipino Teachers) Speaker Series, featuring Jensen Moreno, a well-established Filipino artist whose works spotlight high-profile personalities and are exhibited in some private galleries. Jensen has been a passionate teacher of art for over 12 years and is dedicated to enhancing students’ creative potential to achieve success in many aspects of their lives. All ages. Free admission and refreshments will be served. 9-11am. JOY EL International Academy.

The Danish Chamber of Commerce in China Charity Spring Ball 2019, Mar 30
The Danish Chamber of Commerce in China (DCCC) invite everyone to the biggest Danish party of the year, the Grand Danish “Hygge” Gala for Charity on March 30. Enjoy the night with a grand party courtesy of legendary Danish guitarist Tim Christensen, famed classical Chinese cellist player Zhu Yibing, Beijing-based explosive party-starters Solid Gold, and many more! The DCCC hold their 23rd annual Gala Ball this year, teaming up with Beijing Hefeng Foundation of Arts Summer School to make this evening bigger and more charitable. Adults. RMB 1,300 (non-members), RMB 1,100 (members). From 6pm. Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center. (emily@dccc.com.cn)

Art Afrik Watoto at ART+798, Mar 31
The African continent is home to many different cultures and traditions, and your family doesn’t have to fly thousands of miles to experience them this spring. ART+798 brings the feeling of unique African traditions to Beijing through the Art Afrik Watoto event on March 31, full of learning activities for children. A creative doctor from Uganda will introduce an African folk story with visual arts. The activities also include a fusion of storytelling and music, as well as a high-energy folk dance session for kids! Adults. RMB 299 (non-members), RMB 199 (members). 2-4pm. Art+798 International Art & Reading Space. (173 0105 7981)

Recurring Events

Beijing Farmers Market at Nali Patio, Mar 26
Nali Patio hosts the Beijing Farmers Market every Tuesday this month. Shop around for second-hand clothes, DIY toys, homemade food, and farm fresh goodies. All ages. Free to attend. Visit this page for more info. 11am-2pm. Nali Patio courtyard.

Hello Future Kindergarten Songs and Stories, Mar 26
Hello Future Kindergarten hosts a weekly toddler playgroup every Tuesday morning from 9.15am to 10.15am. There’s reading, singing, dancing, and crafts for the kids, and coffee for mom and dad. Hello Future recommends that parents and not ayis attend this playgroup. Ages 6 months-3 years and parents. RMB 70. Scan the QR code on the poster to register. 9.15-10.15am. Hello Future Kindergarten, Cathay View West Gate, Maquanying.

Photos: Dazzle Jam via Pexels; courtesy of event organizers

I am a regular patron of bookstores in malls or airports, and I’m always on the lookout for the newest editions of Reader’s Digest, Travel and Leisure, and National Geographic magazines. I’ve always believed that whatever is printed on those pages, and in other magazines as well, is a treasure and a visual adventure.

Speaking of National Geographic, it has always been part of my knowledge nook back when I was still a grade schooler. The pleasures of just looking at the images inside an edition, even if I was still too young then to understand the complexities of its topics, were immense, and crucial to growing my passion for reading and learning.

While finishing a task for our upcoming issue, I stumbled upon an event listing about National Geographic: a special exhibition is being held at the Beijing World Art Exhibition in Haidian District, in celebration of the magazine’s 131st anniversary.

Based on the preview photos on their ticket site, the “National Geographic: A New Age of Exploration 2.0” exhibition is set to be grand, with a digital showcase of all of its magazine covers!

Besides that, the organizers invite everyone to “China Memory”, which they describe as a display that “allows visitors to rediscover the grand beauty and cultural heritage of Chinese rivers and mountains, from the perspective of award-winning international photographers.”

If you’re up to an expedition to the top of Mount Everest or a camp with Dr. Jane Goodall, a film showing is also waiting for you! Elsewhere in the treasure hoard that is the NatGeo exhibition are cameras used by photographers to capture some of the powerful images immortalized on the pages of the renowned magazine, as well as artifacts recovered from a shipwreck by French explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau.

The exhibition was launched on March 23 (Saturday) and will be open Tuesdays to Sundays from 9am to 5pm until June 23 (Sunday).

National Geographic: A New Age of Exploration 2.0, until Jun 23
Daily 9am-5pm. Closed on Mondays (during public holidays, the exhibition will be open on Mondays). RMB 80 (pre-sold single ticket), RMB 98 (at the door price for single tickets). Free for one child under 1.2m when accompanied by an adult with a ticket. Discounts available online here. 9am- 5pm. Beijing World Art Museum. 9A Fuxing Lu, Haidian District. 海淀区复兴路甲9号 (5980 2222)

Photos: National Geographic Society

Masterpieces by some of the greatest painters in western art are currently on display in Beijing.

Portrait of a Procurator, Bellini, c.1507

The exhibition, called 500 Years of Western Paintings – Collection of Tokyo Fuji Art Museum can be seen at Tsinghua University’s Art Museum until December 23. As the name suggests, it features works from the Renaissance to the 20th century, from Cranach to Andy Warhol, taking in Goya, Van Gogh, and Monet along the way.

David’s famous painting of the Emperor Napoleon

The 60 artworks have been selected from the collection of the Tokyo Fuji Art Museum, which was founded in 1983 by Buddhist teacher and writer Daisaku Ikeda. The exhibition displays them arranged by theme: Personality Discovery and Humanity Promotion, Resplendent Movement and Exquisite Nostalgia, Classical Rationality and Romantic Emotion, Real Mirror Image and Construction of Light and Colors, and Pure Concept and Diversification.

One of Monet’s groundbreaking “Water Lilies” series

This is an extraordinary opportunity to see some of the most celebrated works in art history, and should not be missed by any art lover.

Warhol’s “Campbell ‘s Soup” prints defined Pop Art

500 Years of Western Paintings – Collection of Tokyo Fuji Art Museum, until Dec 23
All ages. RMB 60. 9am-5pm, no admission after 4.30pm. Tsinghua University Art Museum, No. 1, Tsinghua University Campus, Haidian District (subway Wudaokou on Line 13 or Qinghuadongluxikou on Line 15). www.artmuseum.tsinghua.edu.cn/en/. 海淀区清华园1号 清华大学校内.

Photos: www.artmuseum.tsinghua.edu.cn

Tradition and Modern

The exhibition features a collection of over 60 original illustrations for picture books by 10 celebrated Chinese artists, ranging from watercolor and oil painting, to printmaking.

9am-5pm daily until October 20. Free. Beijing Normal University Gallery, No. 19, XinJieKouWai Street, Haidian district 海淀区北京师范大学京师美术馆

Recreational Exhibition of Naruto
Themed after the popular Japanese comic series Naruto, the exhibition recreates not only the characters but also some of the most famous scenes from the manga.

10am-10pm until Nov 11, RMB 45; 5/F, Hopson One, No. 21 West Dawanglu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区西大望路21号合生汇5层

Funtastico Jaime Hayon
Jaime Hayon is a famous Spanish artist well-known for his whimsical designs. The exhibition features his works the Green Chicken and the Tournament, as well as others from his series including American Chateau.

10am-7pm (weekdays), 10am-8pm (weekends) until Nov 11; RMB 80; 798 Art Zone, No. 4 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang district 朝阳区酒仙桥路4号798艺术区

Muse
An exhibition featuring digital masterpieces from distinguished painters Vincent Van Gogh, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Gustave Caillebotte, Gustav Klimt, and Henri Matisse.

10am-7pm (weekdays), 10am-8pm (weekends) until Nov 13; RMB 88 (weekdays), RMB 128 (weekends), 298 (a parent with a kid within 1.2m); D09-8, Zhong’Er Street, 798 Art Zone, Choayang district 朝阳区798艺术区中二街 D09-8

AR Exhibition of Chinese Fairy Tales
The exhibition brings augmented reality (AR) to 100 classic Chinese fairy tales. The illustrations shed light on traditional Chinese customs, as well as various art forms including murals, paper-cutting, shadow puppetry and embroidery.

2-8pm Mon-Fri until December 9; RMB 80 (adults), RMB 50 (kids), RMB 100 (parent and kid); Blue House (No.1 Building Solana, No.6 Chaoyang Park Road, Chaoyang district 朝阳区朝阳公园6号蓝色港湾1号楼

Photos: courtesy of featured event organizers

China might be the country that has changed faster than any other in human history. Beijing, as the capital, is a prime example of those rapid changes.

Beijing in the 70s is an utterly fascinating time when everything seemed so totally different from today, unrecognizable even.

Dongsi Santiao in the 70s

A collection of old black-and-white photos capturing Beijing around the 1970s is currently on exhibition at the Earthquake and Architectural Science Educational Museum. Initiated by the Urban Construction Archive, the exhibition aims to show the significant achievements Beijing has made in city construction over the past four decades since the Opening Up. The exhibited photos are divided into several categories.

One of the exhibited photos showing Jinyu Hutong

When I visited the other day, most of the audience at the exhibition were in their 60s or older. “It’s heartbreaking to look at the pictures of those hutongs that don’t exist any more,” I overheard one of them saying.

A photo showing Qianmen

Free entrance (ID card or passport needed); 9am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday daily until Aug 7, 2018;  Earthquake and Architectural Science Educational Museaum (No.11 Hujing Donglu, Chaoyang district, 8437 2950).

Photos: Huang Chenkuang