Fiji hosts Chinese architecture exhibit

A Chinese contemporary architecture exhibition kicked off on July 11 in the Fijian capital of Suva.

The Chinese Contemporary Architecture Exhibition at the China Cultural Center in Fiji, is jointly organized by the China Cultural Center in Fiji, the Network of International Culturelink Entities of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China and the China Arts and Entertainment Group, and Skyline.

According to Xie Yanyi, a project manager for the China Arts and Entertainment Group, the exhibition features 76 photos of contemporary architectural projects by top Chinese and foreign architects, which offer visitors a chance to see how China's architecture has developed since reform and opening-up began in 1978.

"Chinese architecture is undergoing a period of great change and is the focus of the world. And this exhibition provides a platform for Fijians to see the rapid development of contemporary Chinese architecture from a unique and new perspective," says Xie.

"Architecture is a synthesis of culture and technology. And culture is the spiritual expression of architecture. So, architecture, as a carrier, embodies the spirit and national characteristics of the times, reflecting its inherent architectural and cultural connotations in a unique form."

For his part, Deng Xianfu, the director of the China Cultural Center in Fiji, says that these projects not only mirror Chinese society, but also present the Chinese architectural landscape of the early 21st century.

"Through the window of Chinese contemporary architecture, visitors can gain an insight into Chinese contemporary architecture, and the new generation of Chinese architects, as well as global trends," says Deng.

"It is an opportunity for exchanges between the peoples and professionals of China and Fiji."

Li Zhi, the Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Chinese embassy in Fiji, says that Chinese architecture is currently witnessing a revolution and attracting attention from around the world.

"By 2020, China will have a one-fifth share of the global construction industry, as China continues to emerge as an architectural power in the world," says Li.

"And this exhibition provides an opportunity for the Chinese and Fijian people to exchange ideas on art, technology and contemporary architecture."

Fijian participants said that the exhibition was timely and would help them better understand China's architecture today.

Alison Burchell, the permanent secretary for Fiji's Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts, says that as a nation with a long history, China has a broad range of ancient and contemporary architecture such as the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Bird's Nest Olympic stadium and Beijing's new airport.

She says that since culture also includes architecture, she hopes that these kinds of exhibitions will help to promote cultural exchanges between the two countries.

The organizers hope that the 30-day exhibition will attract visitors with an interest in Chinese culture and architecture.