2026 Oriental Ecological Wisdom and Art Innovation Workshop

In the context of the new era, rural areas are no longer merely sites of agricultural production but have become vital regions rich in ecological resources, cultural heritage, and unique lifestyles. Art and design, as key tools to enhance the quality of rural areas and highlight their characteristics, play a crucial role In response to this, Zhejiang Normal University launches the "2026 Oriental Ecological Wisdom and Art Innovation Workshop."

The workshop leverages the faculty team from the College of Design and Innovation at Zhejiang Normal University, along with multiple research platforms, to organize a series of academic and cultural exchange activities. By integrating resources and building upon the achievements of Zhejiang's "Beautiful Countryside" initiative the workshop aims to cultivate talent with a global perspective, deep understanding of rural culture, and innovative design skills

I. Theme

In-depth discussions and academic exchanges in the fields of rural revitalization, ecological design, and art-based rural development.

II. Application Deadline

June 10th, 2026

III. Project Duration

July 5th-July 18th, 2026

Ⅳ. Eligibility

(1) Non-Chinese citizens;

(2) Recent graduates (undergraduate or master's degree) in art, design, communication, culture, architecture, or related disciplines;

(3) Strong interest in scientific research in the chosen field of study, with a willingness to pursue further studies (PhD or master's). Applicants with published papers are preferred;

(4) Proficiency in English or Chinese, with preference given to those who meet one of the following criteria: IELTS ≥ 6.0, TOEFL ≥ 100, or HSK 5 ≥ 180.

Ⅴ. Application Process

(1) Online Application: https://admission.zjnu.edu.cn;

(2) The Workshop will accept 20-30 participants. The university will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of applicants based on submitted materials and select the most qualified candidates;

(3) Admission notices and invitation letters will be sent to selected participants.

Ⅵ. Application Materials

(1) Valid passport

(2) Proof of enrollment (for current students)

(3) Academic transcripts

(4) Proof of language proficiency

(5) Other relevant documents

Ⅶ. Costs

(1) Accommodation, meals, insurance, transportation, and group activities during the stay in China will be provided. (During the training period at Zhejiang Normal University, accommodation will be arranged at a partner hotel on campus. During the project practice period, participants will homestay with local villagers to better integrate into the local community and gain a deeper understanding of local customs and traditions. Please make the necessary preparations in advance.)

(2) Round-trip ticket, visa, and other expenses are at the applicant's expense.

(3) The organizer will provide the official invitation letter for the program.

Ⅷ. Art Creation Project Topic Selection

The project practice for this workshop is tentatively planned to take place in Suichang County, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, with the base set in Gaobijie Village, Sanren She Ethnic Township. Workshop participants will be divided into several groups, each composed of Chinese students, international students, and instructors, to carry out artistic creation and innovative development based on the local history, culture, and folk customs. Currently, some preliminary project topics have been proposed, and the specific topics will be adjusted according to the actual conditions and progress at the final project site.

(1)She Ethnic Blue Dyeing

She ethnic blue dyeing is an important intangible cultural heritage of Suichang, combining natural plant dyes and traditional hand- dyeing techniques to showcase unique ethnic aesthetics. This group will explore traditional techniques through hands-on experiences and innovative design, creating modern blue-dyed products like scarves and bags featuring She ethnic totems. The aim is to blend tradition with contemporary style and promote the preservation and revitalization of She culture.

(2) "Fashion No Ages"  Themed Photography

The village of Gaobijie, where we are stayings, has many elderly residents. A group will be organized to prepare various fashionable outfits and props to plan and photograph a stylish photo shoot for each elderly villager, creating commemorative gifts for them. Additionally, a"Fashion No Ages" photography exhibition will be organized. Furthermore, workshop participants will wear clothing incorporating She ethnic blue dyeing elements, shooting at natural and cultural sites in Suichang, and creating photographic works that blend ethnic charm with a sense of fashion. These works will be exhibited both online and offline, promoting a new trend in rural aesthetics and helping She culture reach a broader fashion stage.

(3) Investigation and Innovation of Traditional Chinese Architectural Components

Traditional rural China was once abundant in wooden architecture, which carries rich historical memory and construction wisdom. Over time, due to natural decay,

disasters, and social development, many of these ancient buildings have gradually disappeared, with only a few preserved intact. In this process, some architectural

components with artistic and craft value have been retained, while many others have dispersed into the market or private hands, gradually losing their original cultural

context. This project focuses on traditional architectural components as its research subject, organizing Chinese and international students to conduct field investigations. Through on-site visits, measured drawings, and case studies, students explore the structural functions, aesthetic characteristics, and cultural significance of these components. Building on this understanding, students are guided to apply contemporary art and design approaches to creatively transform and reutilize traditional components.

(4)"Haochuan Culture" Cultural and Creative Development

Haochuan Culture, dating back approximately 4,000 years, is an important cultural marker of prehistoric civilization in southwestern Zhejiang Province, holding unique value for historical research and artistic development. This group will decode the cultural DNA by exploring original pottery patterns, stone tool forms, and totem symbols. Through a dual strategy of "traditional revival + modern reinterpretation," they will develop innovative cultural and creative products.

(5) Filming of Long Zongzi Promotional Video

Zongzi, a traditional Chinese delicacy associated with the Dragon Boat Festival, carries deep cultural significance, embodying remembrance of history and the spirit of family reunion. Wrapped in bamboo leaves and filled with glutinous rice and various flavorful ingredients, it is steamed to perfection, releasing a rich aroma. Today, it stands as one of the most iconic festive foods in Chinese culinary culture.

Suichang Long Zongzi, recognized as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage of Zhejiang, boasts a history spanning several centuries, dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty. Unlike the commonly seen triangular or tetrahedral shapes of southern-style zongzi, Suichang Long Zongzi is uniquely elongated and cylindrical, resembling a bamboo tube-some can reach over one foot in length. Its distinctive charm lies not only in its form but also in its cultural symbolism of "lasting shape, enduring meaning, and deep affection." It is also a vivid reflection of the harmonious integration of She and Han ethnic cultures, and the wisdom embedded in their daily life traditions.

(6) "Millennium Memory" Suichang Black Pottery

Black pottery is a thousand-year-old craft of Suichang, with significant historical and artistic value. This group will visit black pottery artisans to learn traditional pottery-making techniques and explore the integration of modern shapes and uses. They will design innovative black pottery daily necessities and art installations, and host a "Black Pottery Art Week," combining three main modules: exhibition, experience, and dialogue. The goal is to revitalize traditional craftsmanship and create a sustainable rural craft brand.

(7) Rural Public Art

With the concept of "Art Illuminates the Countryside," this project designs public art installations that align with Suichang's natural and cultural environment. The artworks will focus on themes such as the She ethnicity, nostalgia, ecology, and intangible cultural heritage, using eco-friendly materials and interactive design methods to enhance the visual image and cultural atmosphere of the village. The project emphasizes the participation and co-creation of villagers, aiming to create public spaces where art and life merge, fostering a sense of community and cultural vitality.

Ⅸ. Contacts

Contact Person: Ye Ziping
Email: admission@zjnu.edu.cn
Phone: +86-579-82283155

Ⅹ.Project Schedule