Some feel chill and indifferent, while others find peacefulness: the Leshan Giant Buddha's expression, carved into a hillside in the 8th century, makes the historic statue a selfie hot spot. The 71-meter-high Buddha, surrounded by centuries-old temples, draws visitors from home and abroad to Mount Emei in Sichuan province. It is deemed one of Buddhism's holiest sites in China.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of UNESCO's inscription of Mount Emei Scenic Area and the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area on its World Heritage List.
Last year, members of the China National Academy of Painting traveled to the area on a sketching tour. They produced a body of paintings that honor Leshan's majestic grandeur and cultural heritage. Some of these works were created on time-honored handmade rice paper from Jiajiang county, under Leshan's administration.
Recently, these paintings were donated to Leshan. They are on show in the China National Academy of Painting's gallery. A forum was also held to spark discussion on how art can support tourism and protect cultural heritage.
