Putting Brush to Paper

Yesterday was so amazing, where to begin? I guess with one of my favorite activities!

One of our trip highlights that will forever stay near and dear to my heart was our visit to one of Beijing's oldest Hutongs- narrow street communities lined with very small businesses and siheyuan (small courtyard homes typically shared by numerous families). Hutongs are almost entirely unique to Beijing, so when their numbers began to drastically decline in recent years in order to make way for urban planning, a few of the citie's oldest Hutongs became protected areas in an attempt to preserve this important aspect of Chinese cultural history.

As we strolled past an endless line of red canvas covered rickshaws lining the riverside, I was amazed by what seemed to be a beautifully controlled chaos. Cars, bikes, mopeds, rickshaws and pedestrians all danced around each other from all directions in a single lane road. And not a single person yelling at each other!

Suddenly, we turned off onto one of the "residential" alleys and before I knew it, we were at our destination- the home of a master calligrapher. The home itself was interesting and unique- a maze within a maze- walkways twisting and turning, from a tiny entrance way, to an open air courtyard, to the main room where we gathered and were greeted by the teacher and his wife (who served us amazing homemade treats). I couldn't believe it- 6000 miles away from my own home in the home of a complete stranger who spoke a completely foreign language, and I felt entirely at ease. Ironically, we have all felt that way the entire trip- embraced, welcomed and appreciated everywhere we've been.

The master graciously sat us down, then our calligraphy lesson began. He started by telling us (through one of our ever-present and life-saving interpreters!) A brief history of the art and its significance in Chinese history. Then he explained the four basic tools of the trade: paper, brush, ink and ink stone. Today, pre-made ink is very affordable, but true artisans still make their own with an ink stone.

After a demonstration of brush holding, ink dabbing and stroking technique, the master said we were ready to try it for ourselves. We all gathered around the table and did our best to create the Chinese symbol for longevity.
It looked much easier than it was! I am so very grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to TRULY become immersed in a cultural art form admired throughout the entire world. There's no doubt that I now have a much greater appreciation for Chinese calligraphy.

P.S.
If you ever get the chance to take a lesson, go for it!

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Cultural Differences

We spent the morning part of the day exploring the great 2008 Olympic sites; the Water Cube and the Birds Nest. What a site to see. Many of us circled the track; where great Olympians were once competing. Then we made our way to a very upper-class restaurant called Duwang Duck. Many Chinese Celebrities visit here to share in the fun atmosphere and the exquisite food. We were given the chance to make dumpling with the staff and two other “secret” recipes. We also were treated to a 4-star lunch; some made with our own two hands! We then ventured to a metro-art area to view the local contemporary art at 798 District. What a blast that was. Dinner too, was a treat. We dined in a cute little Café’ that served “Western Style” meals. We had Panini’s, French fries, and salad. That was a treat!!

I found a huge difference in the eating habits and cultural styles of my culture and this culture in China. Meals in China are done in layers and taken hours to complete. This is very similar to their history; they have kept detailed records and intricate layers of information to “preserve” their culture as they preserve their dinner time with one another. This resonated with me. China has something neat to take note of here; preservation of family time and also of heritage!

Landing in The Bird's Nest

Today we had an opportunity to view two of the Olympic venues - the "Bird's Nest" and the "Water Cube." When I watched the opening and closing ceremonies during the 2008 Olympics, as well as the many swim events, I was in awe of the beauty of these structures. There is no comparison when you see them up close. It was fascinating to learn how these architectural wonders were designed with Buddhist and Chinese culture in mind. The "Cube" was designed by Australian architects and the "Bird's Nest" was designed by the Swiss.

798….

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I was told we would tour the contemporary art museum, 798. Who names an art museum 798? I quickly learned that 798 is not just a number. It is a symbol. In Beijing it means art, vanguards, unchained personalities, and alternative life goals. I found myself making personal connections to my childhood and Greenwich Village, NY when I would visit my uncle during summer break. Today I witnessed an explosion of culture, an outpour of expression and a sense of freedom that I wasn’t expecting to see in China.
It was nice to be in place that felt like home. We took a casual walk through the shops and galleries of 798. Time stood still as money was exchanged for souvenirs and the sweet sounds of cicadas and Guns and Roses echoed in the background. We closed out the afternoon with some good old western style paninis and french fries. It was the perfect way to end the day!

Discovery's Top Chefs

This has been an incredible start to the day! We are here at the local market picking out fresh fruits, vegetables and meats for our private cooking lesson with our own personal chef. The market is incredible. I have never seen some of these gorgeous fruits and vegetables before. I am really looking forward to our lesson. Pictured here is Becca and Riley!

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Mongolian Hot Pots

What a day in Beijing! We learned the beautiful art of calligraphy from a local Chinese family, explored the Silk Museum, shopped the promenade, and found a new appreciation for the size of Beijing in the Beijing Urban Planning Center. However, my favorite part of the day was the gourmet Mongolian hot pots we eat in the Hutongs. The hot pots reminded me of meat fondue pots. Colorfully decorated copper pots were placed in front of each guest and a broth was brought to a boil. We were served platefuls of raw lamb, meat, vegetables, and mushrooms. The idea was to immerse your pieces of food into the simmering stock, cook it to your liking, and then dip the food into a delicious sauce. It was a real challenge with chop sticks, but so worth the frustrations! Mr. Harvey was the last man standing and somehow managed to continue eating, even after the entire China crew left the dining room. Great job Mr. Harvey!

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Ping Pong Champion

This is the Chinese student who beat in a game of ping pong 21-2. :)
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry