Rural China turns its hand to artistic field

In his plans, people from different walks of life not commonly seen in rural China, such as artists, would come to the space to work or exhibit and the villagers and visitors can also participate in the activities.

Xing started his project in 2016 shortly after his first visit, acquiring the relevant permissions and renting some local residences to transform into his art space.

Now identifying himself as a curator and a practitioner of rural vitalization, Xing invested 2 million yuan ($310,000) in the renovation project, and invited his friends－artists, scholars and entrepreneurs－to Saxiu art space for its opening ceremony a year later in 2017.

"Apart from holding exhibitions and lectures, the space also functions as a rural library, operating in connection with the provincial library in Hangzhou," Xing said.

"It is also my intention to hold book readings here and provide a cozy reading environment."