'A Friendship Beyond Distance': Zimbabwe stone carving exhibition opens in Beijing

On Sept. 3, 2024, the China Millennium Monument Art Gallery in Beijing was abuzz with excitement as it hosted an event titled "A Friendship Beyond Distance" celebrating the opening of the China-Zimbabwe Stone Sculpture Exhibition.

This significant cultural exchange event was jointly hosted by World Affairs Press Co., Ltd., and the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in the People's Republic of China, with the guidance and support of The Department of African Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Baoding Municipal People's Government, the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Zimbabwe, Art Exhibition China, and others. It marked not only a milestone in the cultural relations between China and Zimbabwe, but also symbolized the deep and enduring friendship between the two nations.

Photos from the Opening Ceremony. (Photo provided by the organizers)

The event unfolded at a pivotal time, coinciding with the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) being held in Beijing from Sept. 4 to 6, underscoring the importance of the exhibition as a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue.

Notable attendees included Tatenda Mavetera, Zimbabwe's Minister of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal and Courier Services, Zhou Ding, the Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Cui Chun, chairman of World Affairs Press Co. Ltd., and Liu Xiaomeng, vice mayor of Baoding city, Hebei Province.

The event began with a series of speeches that set the tone for the opening of the exhibition.

Minister of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal and Courier Services of Zimbabwe, Tatenda Mavetera, delivering a speech at the event. (Photo provided by the organizers)

Mavetera praised the longstanding friendship between China and Zimbabwe, likening it to the resilient and enduring nature of stone. Mavetera highlighted the significance of stone carving in Zimbabwean culture, where it is not just an art form but a vital part of the nation's identity. "Zimbabwean stone carving is renowned for its creative and exquisite expression," she said.

Mavetera also referenced the insights of President Xi Jinping, who has underscored the significance of cultural confidence as a fundamental force in a country's development. She noted that Xi's Global Civilization Initiative, which calls for respect for diverse civilizations and promotes the common values of humanity, is exemplified by the exhibition.

"Today's exhibition serves as a concrete measure in response to the Global Civilization Initiative," she remarked, adding that it embodies the important messages conveyed by Xi and Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.

Echoing an ancient Chinese adage, she concluded, "a single flower does not make a spring," emphasizing that the diversity and vibrancy of the world’s civilizations are what drive human society forward.

Deputy Mayor of Baoding, Liu Xiaomeng, delivering a speech at the event. (Photo provided by the organizers)

Liu's speech was a reminder of the historical depth of Chinese sculpture, a tradition dating back thousands of years. From the intricate jade carvings of ancient China to the monumental stone sculptures of Quyang county in Baoding, Chinese artists have long demonstrated exceptional skill and creativity. Quyang, often referred to as the "Hometown of Chinese Sculpture", has been a center of stone carving for over 2,300 years, with its craftsmen contributing to iconic structures such as the Forbidden City and the Great Hall of the People.

As part of the event, a documentary titled "A Dialogue of Stone Sculptors Across Time" was screened, offering attendees a deeper insight into the artistic process and cultural significance of stone sculpture in both countries. The film featured interviews with Chinese and Zimbabwean artists, exploring how they draw inspiration from their cultural heritage while also pushing the boundaries of their art forms.

China and Zimbabwe exchanged stone sculptures symbolizing traditional friendship. (Photo provided by the organizers)

In an interview following the ceremony, Mavetera shared some personal insights.

When expressing her feelings regarding how she felt about Zimbabwe's art being displayed in Beijing, she said "for me, it's very exciting. We are happy that Zimbabwe culture has been taken abroad. We are not only confined to Zimbabwe, but we are going to even other countries, and reaching out and everyone is appreciating us from all angles."

Mavetera also spoke on China-Africa relations and FOCAC, saying "As Africa, we really need to be able to learn from what China has done, and this [FOCAC] goes a long way in strengthening our relationship. And also, for our learning, there are many skills that need to be imparted to the people of Africa, and for us, we really want to thank the People's Republic of China."

Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, being interviewed by the media. (Photo provided by the organizers)

The opening ceremony for the "China-Zimbabwe Stone Sculpture Exhibition was a resounding success. It brought together artists, dignitaries, and citizens from two nations to celebrate their shared cultural heritage and explore new avenues for collaboration. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, such events remind us of the power of art to transcend borders and bring people together.

The exhibition not only showcased the beauty and diversity of stone sculpture but also highlighted the enduring friendship between China and Zimbabwe. It was a fitting tribute to the rich cultural traditions of both nations and a powerful symbol of their commitment to building a brighter future together.

Group photo of the guests at the event. (Photo provided by the organizers)

Guests appreciating the stone sculptures together. (Photo provided by the organizers)