THE Aranya Plein Air Art Project being held through Oct. 29 at the Aranya beachside community in North China’s Hebei Province, has 21 Chinese and international artists presenting artworks along three hiking trails, in the verdant valley of Aranya Jin Shan Ling, at the foot of the Great Wall of China. Participating artists include Chen Xiaoyi, Tony Cragg, Ding Yi, Christine Sun Kim, Vivian Suter, Tom Friedman and Robert Mapplethorpe, to name a few. The land art festival, organized by Damien Zhang, director of the Aranya Art Center, combines international art perspectives to explore shared issues and focuses on the intricate connection between humans, nature and art through local artistic practices. By creating, expressing, interacting, and experiencing art, it directs people’s attention to the land and mountains, bringing art back to its fundamental and timeless theme of nature. Located in Beidaihe, Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, Aranya is a thriving tourism destination known for its scenic beauty, cultural attractions and modern architectural marvels. Situated on the coast of the Bohai Sea, Aranya offers stunning views of the ocean and beaches. It has gained popularity among young tourists for its diverse attractions, including hotels, apartments, art exhibitions, music festivals, and unique architecture, such as the “Lonely Library.” The destination also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, attracting locals and tourists alike. (SD News) | 