ABOUT
Initiated by ART CSSA (Association of Chinese Students and Scholars in the Arts, USA), Eastward Journey is an international exchange program supported by leading institutions such as the Beijing Film Academy, Central Academy of Fine Arts, 798 Art District, National Art Museum of China, and the Chinese Student Association at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Set in Beijing—a city where ancient heritage meets contemporary innovation—the program invites artists, scholars, and emerging creatives from around the world to take part in an immersive cultural and academic experience. Participants engage directly with China’s dynamic art scene, exploring both traditional practices and new intersections of art, media, and commerce.
Through curated visits, workshops, and dialogue, Eastward Journey opens up pathways for cross-cultural collaboration and professional growth. The program blends deep academic inquiry with the everyday joy of travel, food, and local encounters—fostering meaningful exchange and future-facing creative partnerships.
Program Highlights
Academic Exchange: Visit top institutions like the Beijing Film Academy and CAFA to explore contemporary Chinese art education through lectures, campus tours, and cross-cultural dialogue.
Historical Landmarks and Local Flavor: Experience Beijing’s cultural depth—from the Forbidden City and Great Wall to hutongs and museums—while sampling local cuisine and urban life.
Traditional Arts and Aesthetics: Engage in hands-on workshops in cloisonné enamel, opera makeup, and decorative arts to learn the material language of Chinese heritage.
Contemporary Art and Creative Industries: Discover how art meets media and commerce through visits to 798 Art District, new media firms, and film production sites, offering real-world insight into China’s evolving creative ecosystem.
Global Dialogue and Artistic Collaboration: Connect with artists, curators, and institutions to exchange ideas, explore future residencies, and develop cross-cultural creative projects beyond the program.
