11 June 2026, Beijing – The UNESCO Regional Office for East Asia launched The Brushstrokes of Time: Beautiful China through Children’s Eyes, a Children’s Art Initiative and Thematic Painting Exhibition at 798CUBE in Beijing. Formed as part of UNESCO Culture and Arts Education Week under the theme “Culture and Arts Education for Lasting Peace,” the opening ceremony brought together more than 100 representatives from government agencies, cultural institutions, foundations, artists, educators, students, and families.
The initiative represents a collaborative effort organized by the UNESCO Regional Office for East Asia, co-organized by the China Green Carbon Foundation and the CICC Charity Foundation, and hosted by Beijing 798 Culture & Technology Co., Ltd.
Opening remarks delivered by representatives from UNESCO and partner organizations highlighted the important role of culture and arts education in nurturing creativity, environmental awareness, cultural understanding, and active engagement among young people. They emphasized that artistic expression enables children to explore their relationship with nature, culture, and society, while sharing their perspectives on sustainable development and peaceful futures. The speakers also recognized children as important contributors to ecological awareness, cultural continuity, and positive social change through creativity and participation.
The exhibition features 120 artworks created by children aged 6 to 15 from across China, selected through a nationwide open call. The works are presented in three thematic sections: Footprints of Nature, Memories of Home, and Future Habitats. Together, they explore the country’s natural landscapes, cultural traditions, and aspirations for sustainable development, offering young people’s perspectives on the relationship between people, culture, and the environment.
At the opening ceremony, representatives from UNESCO and partner organizations presented certificates to participating children in recognition of their creativity and engagement. Through their artworks, the young participants shared reflections on environmental protection, cultural continuity, and peaceful futures, showcasing how arts and cultural participation can empower the next generation as active contributors to cultural life.
Included as part of the 2026 Beijing Art Season and in celebration of the UNESCO Arts and Culture Education Week, the exhibition provides a platform for children and young people to showcase their creativity and artistic expression, while reflecting UNESCO’s commitment to advancing culture and arts education as a pathway to sustainable development and lasting peace. By supporting children’s participation in artistic creation and cultural expression, the initiative further strengthens the links between education, culture, and sustainable development.
The exhibition is open to the public free of charge from 12 to 28 June 2026 at 798CUBE in Beijing.
READ MORE: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/unesco-launches-childrens-art-initiative-and-exhibition-celebrating-beautiful-china-through?hub=701
