Bridging Cultures : Hebei Acrobatics at the Paris Olympics

Published on July 26, 2024

Glories of Hebei: Connecting Acrobatic Culture with the Paris Olympics

“Glories of Hebei: Photo Exhibition of Acrobatic Culture” opened at Les Amis de Nouvelles d’Europe in Paris on July 23, 2024, creating a unique connection between traditional Chinese sports and the modern Olympics.

Exhibition Overview

This exhibition, celebrating the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, features bilingual displays (Chinese and French) that combine text and images to present the exquisite acrobatic artifacts of Hebei.

Sections of the Exhibition

The exhibition is divided into two sections: “Marvelous Past” and “Continuing Legacy.” The “Marvelous Past” section exhibits photos of ancient acrobatic techniques, including a mural painting inside a Han dynasty tomb in Dongping and a pair of Han dynasty pottery figurines in handstands. The “Continuing Legacy” section highlights the preservation and innovation of acrobatic arts through Wuqiao acrobatics posters, stage photos, and images of performances at Wuqiao Acrobatics World, a national 4A-level tourist attraction.

Organizers and Significance

Organized by the Hebei Museum and supported by Art Exhibitions China, this event also celebrates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France. Hebei Province, located in northern China, is renowned for its acrobatics, especially those of Wuqiao County, one of the birthplaces of Chinese acrobatic arts. Located along the world heritage site Grand Canal, Wuqiao, known as the “Home of Acrobats,” boasts acrobatic arts that are gems of Eastern art.

Commitment to Cultural Heritage

The Hebei Museum and Art Exhibitions China are committed to upholding Chinese cultural heritage, fostering cultural confidence, maintaining tradition while innovating, and embracing openness and inclusiveness. By sharing China’s stories and voices, they contribute to the preservation and promotion of traditional Chinese culture and facilitate exchanges between civilizations.

Cultural Exchange and Inspiration

By connecting Chinese acrobatics with the modern Olympics, the exhibition showcases how civilizations inspire and illuminate each other, demonstrating that cultural exchange can bring people closer, even across vast distances.