49-Day Artist Residency in Beijing

Toy was invited to an artist residency in Beijing. These are some of her thoughts.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to embark on a creative journey in a city filled with history, culture? Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant art scene of Beijing, wandering through ancient alleys, and finding inspiration around every corner.

The Beginning

It all started with an invitation. 6 months later I'm landing in Beijing, a blank canvas, with nothing but a heart full of anticipation, ready to soak in everything this enchanting city had to offer. The air was filled with a mix of tradition and modernity, a perfect blend that fuels the creative spirit. From the hutongs to the modern sky scrapers, the Forbidden City to the ultra modern, Beijing was a treasure trove of inspiration.

The Creative Process

Each day brought new adventures and encounters that found their way into my art. I spent hours in my studio, letting the colours and materials blend and transform, mirroring the eclectic energy of Beijing. The vibrant reds of temple doors, the empty spaces of traditional paintings, and the porcelain, the mythologies, each element found its place in my evolving collection.

Keeping to our ethos of reusing and recycling elements, my hosts guided me to their 'rubbish'. A stack of japanese cedar, once a display of some kind, ancient doors, old sheets, plastic forks...

Inspiration on Every Corner

Beijing's rich history and cultural tapestry provided an endless wellspring of inspiration. The ancient architecture of the Forbidden City, the mystical aura of the Great Wall, and the melodic chatter of locals in the markets, the history, the modernity - every sight, sound, and scent was an impression, a brushstroke that was "49 Days in Beijing".

The Exhibition

After 49 days of exploration, creation, and introspection, the time had finally come to unveil my collection to the world. The exhibition space buzzed with excitement as art lovers and patrons wandered through the gallery, each piece telling a story of Beijing through my eyes. The culmination of this incredible residency was a celebration of creativity, culture, and connection that transcended language and borders.

Reflections

As the lights dimmed on "49 Days in Beijing", I found myself filled with gratitude for this transformative experience. Beijing had welcomed me with open arms and left an indelible mark on my art and soul. The memories of early morning walks in the misty parks, the laughter of new friends, and the whispers of the city's ancient past will forever weave through my artistic journey.

So, dear readers, as you close this virtual gallery of words, I hope you feel a spark of inspiration ignited within you. Whether you're an artist, an explorer, or simply a dreamer, remember that in every corner of the world, there lies a masterpiece waiting to be unveiled. Until next time, keep creating, keep exploring, and keep your eyes open to the beauty that surrounds you.

This blog post is a visual journey through an artist's residency in Beijing, reflecting on the creative process, inspiration found in the city, and the culmination of the "49 Days in Beijing" exhibition. It immerses readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the artistic journey, inviting them to explore the transformative power of creativity in a new landscape.