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| A visitor paints on a stone under instruction from a Lijiang sand and stone painting artist at a tourism forum in Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, held from Friday to Sunday. [Photo provided to China Daily] |
In mid-October, Neeraj Singh Dev, a representative of Thomas Cook India, found himself captivated by a special form of art during his trip to Guilin, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China. What started as an exploration of the city’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural offerings led to an unexpected and deeply personal souvenir—one that would forever link him to this picturesque corner of the world.
While attending the 2024 UN Tourism/PATA Forum on Tourism Trends and Outlook, Neeraj stumbled upon a unique art form that would soon inspire him. He was struck by the beauty of Lijiang sand and stone paintings, traditional artworks that use natural materials sourced directly from the riverbanks of the Lijiang River. The paintings, which depict the breathtaking landscapes of Guilin, fascinated him so much that he decided to create his own version of this traditional art.
"I was instantly attracted to the sand and stone paintings on display at the forum," Neeraj says. "They beautifully captured the essence of the landscape here. I wanted to create something that would serve as a personal memory of this amazing place."
In an act of creative homage, Neeraj wrote his hometown name on a special stone, one of the many types of stones found along the Lijiang River’s banks. "My hometown name is very long, so I wrote the short version of it," he adds with a smile, noting how the artistic process itself felt like a natural extension of his journey—a creative expression of his own connection to the place.
The Art of Lijiang Sand and Stone Paintings
The Lijiang sand and stone painting is an ancient art form native to the Guilin region, which was recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by the city of Guilin in 2022. This unique form of painting uses natural materials, such as sand and stones from the Lijiang River, to create intricate landscapes that seem to come to life. The method involves eight major steps and over 20 detailed processes—from sourcing the stones and selecting the perfect ones to compose the design and assemble the final piece.
Luo Qian, an inheritor of this ancient art, explained the painstaking effort that goes into creating each piece: "It uses the sand and stones from the riverbed to construct distant landscapes, creating handcrafted scrolls of nature." Luo’s work embodies the perfect blend of tradition and artistry, capturing the essence of Guilin's serene environment and making it tangible through his skillful technique.
A Hands-On Experience at the Forum
At the 2024 UN Tourism/PATA Forum, held in Guilin, one of the event’s highlights was a special exhibition showcasing these sand and stone paintings. The forum, which gathered over 120 tourism experts and representatives from 25 countries, not only focused on the future of tourism recovery in Asia but also emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting traditional cultural practices.
Luo Qian, eager to share this unique art form with a wider audience, introduced an easy-to-use kit that allowed forum participants to experience the creation of sand and stone paintings for themselves. "We taught visitors how to create their own patterns, offering them a quick and enjoyable experience of the art," Luo explains. This interactive approach was an instant hit among attendees, giving them a chance to take home a piece of Guilin’s cultural heritage.
For Neeraj, the experience was more than just a chance to try something new—it was a moment of reflection, as he connected his personal story with the ancient artistry of Guilin. "This form of art is not only beautiful, but it also embodies the spirit of Guilin," Neeraj says. "It feels like a perfect way to take a piece of this place with me."
Guilin’s Role in Tourism and Cultural Exchange
The 2024 UN Tourism/PATA Forum held in Guilin was more than just an event for discussing tourism trends; it also served as a platform for highlighting the significance of cultural preservation in tourism. Experts from countries around the world gathered to explore ways to integrate digital technology and traditional arts to revitalize the tourism sector, particularly in regions rich with cultural heritage like Guilin.
For Neeraj, the trip underscored the value of connecting with local traditions in meaningful ways, offering him a deeper understanding of how cultural experiences can enrich travel. "Tourism is about more than just visiting a place; it’s about connecting with its soul," he reflects. "The art here truly captured the spirit of Guilin, and it’s something I will carry with me forever."
A Personal Connection
Neeraj’s experience in Guilin and his creation of a Lijiang sand and stone painting serves as a perfect example of how travel can deepen one’s personal connection to a destination. What began as a simple appreciation of local art evolved into an unforgettable moment of creative expression, merging his own story with the ancient artistry of the region.
As more travelers seek meaningful and immersive experiences, stories like Neeraj's remind us that sometimes, the best souvenirs are not those we buy, but those we create—memories and mementos that resonate with us long after the trip has ended. For Neeraj, his special stone with his hometown name written on it will forever remind him of the serene landscapes of Guilin, the ancient art of the Lijiang River, and a journey that allowed him to find a piece of himself in a distant land.
Conclusion
Neeraj Singh Dev’s journey to Guilin has left him with more than just fond memories of a stunning landscape and an inspiring forum. His creation of a sand and stone painting is a reflection of the deep personal connection he has formed with this culturally rich and beautiful part of China. As tourism continues to recover and evolve, experiences like these—where personal connections to culture, tradition, and art are forged—are what make travel so profoundly rewarding.
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