Today I went to the artist village of Song Zhuang. It took two and a half hours (Yes, it was a real village far from the center of Beijing). Anyways, a little background info on the village is that the factory 798 (refer back to my post about 798) used to be filled with artist’s studios, rather than the galleries that fill the big factory. After a few years, the rent became too expensive because of the commercialization of 798 that a whole bunch of artists moved the whole gig to Song Zhuang.
At first I just visited a few random studios and talked to the artists that were working. I asked questions about the commercialization of art, the difficulty of staying true to their visions, and the tightly-knit artist community. I learned that rent was amazingly affordable at Song Zhuang (probably because of the aforementioned distance from the center of Beijing)–$4,000/year was the most expensive I heard but it was for a spacious building with two floors and a lot of wall space. An artist who just graduated only pays $1,500/year and made me contemplate if I should try this lifestyle.
I was further enticed when Li Xianting, a contact that I was extremely fortunate to have invited me into his palace. That really isn’t an exaggeration when you consider how he had numerous beautiful paintings, sculptures and decorations tastefully placed around his Chinese courtyard shaped home. Li Xianting can afford this all because he practically founded Song Zhuang, built several art museums he now curates for and has supported many of the currently famous contemporary artists. When I brought up the Cultural Revolution in many of younger artists’ works, he suggested that perhaps it was because the Cultural Revolution has yet to end in China. A disturbing thought, but what if it’s true?
Later, when I casually asked him where all the women artists were, he laughed and told me I should talk to his wife who recently curated a show solely for the women artists of Song Zhuang. She was equally full of insights and told me I had to meet a certain woman artist who’s home she drove me to. Her art which focuses on the aftermath of the Cultural Revolution was raw and experimental–I was moved. While looking at her art though, her husband came in and invited my interpreter and I to join them for a dinner party they were throwing. We stayed of course, and met several artists who progressively got louder and more opinionated as the hosts poured more alcohol into their cups. There was poetry recitation, folk singing and other party activities.
(like this “Let’s see if I can twirl you around” activity)
It’s late now, and I can’t believe all the generosities I encountered today. The people were making challenging art, questioning the status quo but nevertheless enjoying life with like-minded people. Really, I would become a Song Zhuang resident if it weren’t for college..hmmm…
That’s it for now. Thanks for reading!
–Miyuki