Chongqing - Jiao Xingtao, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the Vice President of the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, has been passionately committed to integrating art into rural revitalization. His most notable endeavor, the transformation of Lianhuaxue Village in Bishan District, is remarkable. This project has successfully converted a once-neglected village into an exemplary fusion of rural revitalization and cultural tourism, garnering widespread acclaim.
Jiao Xingtao is a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the Vice President of the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute. (Photo/Chongqing Daily)
Years ago, Lianhuaxue Village was a near-abandoned locale with barely 15 residents, its desolation palpable. The synergistic efforts of Jiao Xingtao's team alongside Chongqing's rural planners have breathed new life into the village. Their initiatives extended beyond mere infrastructural enhancements, infusing the village with a rich cultural essence through artistic endeavors, thereby establishing Lianhuaxue as a prominent rural tourism destination near downtown Chongqing.
In a compelling showcase, Jiao Xingtao presented three before-and-after photographs encapsulating the village's metamorphosis. The first series highlights the transformation of a once-dilapidated residence. This building, previously marred by structural decay and neglect, has been meticulously restored. Under Jiao's guidance, it emerged as a village history museum, blending traditional culture with modern artistry, and has become a pivotal cultural site. The surrounding wasteland was transformed into a tidy square, fostering community engagement and dialogue.
The before-and-after photograph of the village history museum. (Photo/Jiao Xingtao)
The subsequent photo series illustrates the revival of a derelict farmhouse courtyard into a vibrant educational hub, now serving as Lianhuaxue's study room and library. This space not only facilitates learning and reading for the villagers but also serves as a prime location for scholarly dialogues on art's role in rural rejuvenation, thereby revitalizing the village's cultural ethos.
The before-and-after photograph of the educational hub of Lianghuaxue Village. (Photo/Jiao Xingtao)
The final series depicts the conversion of an unused plot into a central art plaza, accentuating Lianhuaxue's artistic allure. Additionally, a deserted structure was reimagined as a rural art gallery, becoming a cornerstone for artistic expression within the village.
The before-and-after photograph of the rural art gallery. (Photo/Jiao Xingtao)
Lianhuaxue's transformation is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the local governance, community, and artists. Jiao Xingtao highlighted the village's new attractions, like the farmhouse café, which has enticed former migrant workers to return as baristas, and the introduction of artisanal crafts, enriching the village's cultural landscape. Today, Lianhuaxue is a renowned tourist destination, celebrated for its art exhibitions and as a gathering place for students and creatives.
This remarkable transition has revitalized Lianhuaxue Village and set a precedent for rural development, illustrating the profound impact of art in fostering rural revitalization. The visionary efforts of Jiao Xingtao and his team have charted a new course for rural communities, showcasing the transformative power of art in enriching rural life.