Foreword
Engraved Block Printing Technique （雕版印刷术）first originated in China, it provides an effective means of communication among different cultures. Woodblock Printing Art （版画艺术） was derived from the evolution of printing and became the common language of art exchange in ancient times. Woodblock printing is the medium of artistic expression and it encourages cultural exchange in the global context.
In this new era, ‘Cooperation and Win-win’ （“合作·共赢”） is one of the prominent issues in China. This grand conception, across time and space, has come from the depths of history, interwoven past with the present. It connected China with foreign countries and conformed to the trend to pursue peace and harmony. ‘Cooperation and Win-win — Sino-foreign Printmaking Exchange Exhibition’ is jointly organised by the China Cultural Centre in Sydney and Network of International Culturalink Entities. This online virtual exhibition brings 20 Chinese artists and 25 artists from the countries along the “Belt and Road” together with 45 pieces of woodblock printings that diversify styles and unique beauty. The exhibition comprises four sections: ‘Soul Course—Yearn’, ‘Soul Course —Emerge’, ‘Soul Course —Face Each Other From a Distance’ and ‘Soul Course — Forever’.
With 3D modeling technology, the exhibition digitises and immerses visitors by creating mirroring and Droste effects. It showcases videos of woodblock painting villages and museums, as well as the art-crafting process, along with short documentaries filmed at the “Belt and Road” cities and 2019 Guanlan Biennale. Employing a flowing background, the exhibition expresses ups and downs and waves of spiritual awakenings that guides audiences through an immersive experience.
‘2021 Cooperation and Win-win — Sino-foreign Printmaking Exchange Exhibition’ presents a series of international woodblock paintings in the form of video and photo archives that contribute to Chinese woodblock printing art development. Meanwhile, promoting international cultural exchange through woodblock printing has successfully marked the contemporary relevance of the ancient Silk Road.
