Artists revive crumbling village into tourist resort

According to Zhao, about 40 artists, including painters, writers and poets, now live in the art community. The community hosts at least 12 exhibitions a year and other activities, such as academic research and art seminars, so about 200,000 tourists flock to the village every year.

Art activities and the influx of visitors brought life to the village, and villagers there also can make money by selling some commodities and providing accommodations, he said.

Zhao believes that rural revitalization is not just about economic development but also is associated with culture.

"The art activities are not just about attracting tourists; we live and mesh with the village to make culture and art rooted and spread in this place," he said.