Dates: March 13-16, 2025
Are you curious about having an experience where art, culture, and community come together? Join CEL on a unique and creative long weekend in Beijing! Led by Visual Arts Professor Monika Lin, this trip is designed for students who want to connect with Beijing’s vibrant art scene and the people behind art practices and spaces. No art background needed!
What’s this program about?
This isn’t your typical sightseeing trip. Over three action-packed days, you’ll collaborate with factory workers to create printmaking art inspired by their daily lives and personal narratives. (Prof. Monika Lin will train you in advance on how to do this.) Afterwards, you’ll explore Beijing’s unique art spaces, meet local artists, and reflect on the role of art in shaping communities.
Why Join?
- Hands-On Creativity: Create art alongside factory workers, helping them to use personal stories to inspire their craft.
- Cultural Immersion: From the cutting-edge galleries of the 798 Art Zone to the exhibits in the China National Art Museum, explore the distinctive art scene in Beijing.
- Meaningful Connections: Engage in conversations with local artists, hike Jingshan Mountain for breathtaking views of the Forbidden City, and bond with fellow students over shared creative experiences.
- Personal Growth: This program can help you understand the world through the lens of others, build empathy, and discover new perspectives.
Itinerary
Thursday, March 13: Take the high-speed train from Shanghai to Beijing.
Friday, March 14: Kick off with a day of printmaking workshops and collaborative activities at a factory that houses the social art practice Social Sensibility. Wrap up with a group dinner to reflect on the day’s creations and experiences.
Saturday, March 15: Explore the iconic 798 Art Zone, visit artists’ studios, and dive into discussions about contemporary art practices. The evening is yours to enjoy Beijing’s vibrant culture.
Sunday, March 16: Start your day with a hike up Jingshan Mountain for panoramic views of the Forbidden City, then visit the China National Art Museum to see a mix of traditional and modern masterpieces. Return to Shanghai in the afternoon, inspired and refreshed.
Who Is This For?
This program is perfect for students who:
- Are passionate about art, culture, and storytelling.
- Want to step outside their comfort zone and engage with new perspectives.
- Are curious about the intersection of art, industry, and community engagement.
- Are ready to make meaningful connections with peers, artists, and factory workers alike.
Cost: RMB 900 covering hotel, local transport, workshop materials, expert guides, and some meals. You will be expected to purchase your own train tickets to and from Beijing. We will tell you which trains to book and can teach you how to do the booking if you haven’t done it before.
Application Instructions
Spaces are limited, so don’t wait! Apply here.