Since 2009, the Municipal Government of Beijing, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Science & Technology, and the Ministry of Culture have been collaborating to host the citywide Beijing Design Week, with the intent to nurture design in China, and inspire discourse between Chinese and International designers and artists. Running from tomorrow, Friday September 26 to next Friday October 3, there are events taking place across the city. This year’s English website is a huge improvement, and includes a detailed venue map. Read about our pick of the kid-friendly exhibitions on offer after the jump.
Kids and Family Day
Our top pick for families. Check out our blog post about the inaugural Design Week Family Day here. This Saturday, September 27 from 11am-6pm, families with children over three can avail of free workshops and activities for free at No. 1 Red Courtyard, Caochangdi, from participants UCCA Creative Studio, Hansheng, Vivi Dolce, Morning France, Beijing Academy of Creative Arts (BACA), and onedotzero.
"From Dot to Neverland" Children’s Illustration Workshop
A free bilingual children’s picture book illustrating workshop hosted by Kyle Skor (painter-children’s book author) and Stelart Wang (designer). Children will first listen to the Chinese folk tale the “Three Monks”, and then Skor and Wang will guide the children through the story illustration process. All materials are also provided free of charge. Get more information here.
The Magic Horse
A mechanical galloping horse sculpture, created from recycled metal parts by the Antigua i Barbuda theatre company, is sure to fascinate and charm kids young and old. The horse will also feature in several performances around Beijing during design week, accompanied by dancing, music, and theatrics. Find out more, and watch a video of the horse in motion, here. Probably of most interest to families will be the daily touring music and dance shows (at 1pm and 4pm) 751 D·PARK, from September 29 to October 3.
Play With Me
Play with recycled paper and pulp animal figurines created by Lu Yi and sponsored by Suzuki Kitchen. 10-14 Yangmeizhu Hutong, Dashilar Alley.
Also worth a look are Salut! Artist Master!, The Lab of Taste and Affection, and Lord of the Candies.
Images courtesy of Beijing Design Week
