Outstanding Qinling-themed exhibition opens

An exhibition showcasing outstanding works from the 2025-2026 Qinling Mountains ecological conservation campaign opened on July 15 at the Silk Road International Culture and Art Center in Xi'an, Shaanxi province.

The exhibition highlights the Qinling Mountains' ecological, cultural and strategic significance, using artistic works to raise public awareness of ecological conservation and promote the mountain range's cultural identity.

The opening ceremony brought together officials from Shaanxi provincial government departments and the Shaanxi provincial committee of the Communist Youth League, along with renowned artists in calligraphy, fine arts, photography and music.

In his opening remarks, Wen Zhigang, deputy director of the Shaanxi Development and Reform Commission, said Shaanxi has made the protection and restoration of the Qinling Mountains a long-term priority, contributing to continuous improvements in the region's ecological environment. He called for greater public awareness of ecological conservation, deeper exploration of the Qinling Mountains' cultural heritage, and broader participation across society to help preserve the mountain range's natural beauty.

Launched in November 2025 as part of the 2025-2026 Qinling Mountains ecological conservation campaign, the nationwide call for entries received nearly 10,000 original submissions across four categories: calligraphy, painting, micro videos and original songs.

Following expert review, 208 outstanding works were selected, including 130 calligraphy and painting pieces, 48 micro videos and 30 original songs. Showcasing the Qinling Mountains' spectacular landscapes, rich biodiversity and ecological conservation achievements, the works highlight the mountain range from diverse artistic perspectives. Awards were presented to representatives of the winners at the opening ceremony.

Hang Shangshang, who won first prize in the calligraphy category, said the Qinling Mountains have long been a source of artistic inspiration. "The Qinling Mountains embody the rich heritage of Chinese civilization and are a powerful cultural symbol," he said. "Through calligraphy, I hope to celebrate their beauty and help pass on their cultural legacy."

The exhibition brings together calligraphy, painting, micro videos and, for the first time, original songs. Through diverse artistic expressions, the works showcase the Qinling Mountains' breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity and ongoing ecological conservation efforts. Visitors can also scan QR codes to listen to Qinling-themed songs, adding an immersive audio experience to the exhibition.

Local visitors praised the exhibition for blending art with environmental awareness. "It's inspiring to appreciate these works and learn the stories behind them," said a local visitor who attended the exhibition with her child. "It helps us better understand the importance of protecting the Qinling ecosystem and inspires the next generation to do the same."

Open to the public free of charge from July 15 to 19, the exhibition demonstrates how art can help promote ecological conservation and showcase the Qinling Mountains' natural beauty, as well as Shaanxi's progress in green development.