Bamboo culture shines at art festival

Guangzhou’s Nansha district raised the curtain on the second Southeast Asia Bamboo Culture Festival on Dec 8, with 16 pieces of bamboo art on display for tourists.

Entries were voted on after the sponsor organized a college construction competition nearly six months in advance.

Eight teams from domestic universities and eight from countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative stood out from several rounds of selection. Their works were voted as the final exhibitions.

A bamboo artwork at the festival [Photo/gznsnews.com.cn]

A bamboo artwork at the festival [Photo/gznsnews.com.cn]

The teams placed a strong emphasis on the interactivity between the bamboo structures and the tourists. They didn’t choose open spaces but sited their creations on popular routes, such as bridges, galleries and pavilions.

“Our team got to know Nansha via the internet before we came here, learning the local waterfowl’s habits,” said a competitor. “We wished to construct a bamboo structure that can not only win the contest but also be a part of the beautiful place, harmonious with the birds and tourists.”

Sightseers could also enjoy other activities at the site such as the Asian Boom Secret Garden, Bali Music Festival and Chiang Mai Street Fruits.

This year’s festival also introduced a Southeast Asia weekend fair, gathering local specialties like coffee, fruits and cocktails from Thailand and Vietnam. The most popular souvenirs were woodcarvings, vases and other Southeast Asia-style ornaments.

Visitors are not only able to see rare birds and to appreciate bamboo artworks but can also taste delicacies or buy handicrafts during the festival.