Beijing Part I: 798 Art District

Although Beijing is not an exotic destination, this is a very special trip. To me, at least. It was the 1st time I travelled to a foreign place all by myself. Everyone who knew I would be making this trip was worried as Beijing conjures up for them images of gutter oil, polluted air and uncivilised people.

But I guess as with all travels, it is important to go with an open mind and you'll be surprise by how much you can learn.

My first stop after checking into the hotel was to the 798 Art Zone. The only way to get there is by cab. I was there at around 10 in the morning and there were few people on the streets. The entire 798 art zone was previously a factory area and the galleries that now lined the streets were old factory compounds.

The first sculpture or art work I chanced upon was this sculpture of Van Gogh looking at the sunflower. In the art zone, sculptures and art installations can be found along the streets for people to look, appreciate and take a photo with it.

I am usually not a fan of sculptures but during this trip, I came across some sculptures I rather admire by Chinese sculptor Xue ZhongLin. His inspiration for his works came from a village in Shanbei and his sculptures seek to portray the joy and happiness of the villagers despite their simple and mundane lives.

This particular sculpture you see here was previously exhibited at the Shanghai world expo. The artist was inspired by the help that poured in from all over the world during the Si Chuan earthquake in 2008. The sculpture was moved to 798 after the expo for all visitors to enjoy.

Even if you do not have deep pockets by the professional artists, fret not. There are quite a few interesting design stores in the area and it is always interesting to walk into one of these where you may find clothes, jewellery, furniture with strong design elements. The prices are high for Beijing standards, but if you come from somewhere where the currency is strong, the prices are still acceptable.

Anyway, walking around the area is already fun enough. The above ground pipes here reminds me of the architecture I saw in Russia.

 When the weather got too cold for me, or when my feet is urging me to take a rest, I will pop into one of these quaint and cosy cafes that lined the streets of 798.

798 is not the usual tourist destination and to some, it may even be off the beaten track. But to me, it is interesting and definitely worth a visit ! :)