At the Dunhuang Academy in the Chinese mainland, dancer Zhao Muyun immersed herself in the murals’ color schemes, documenting every hue and pattern she observed. Her fresh insights were carefully sent to fellow performers Chen Xi and Shen Huan—artists who once walked these caves but never shared the same stage.
Studying Ancient Hues
By focusing on the murals’ palette, Zhao built a vital link between past and present. Though Chen Xi and Shen Huan had long studied these visual stories, they lacked Zhao’s modern research—until now.
A Graduation Invitation
As Zhao and her classmates received an invitation to present their graduation dance in Dunhuang, excitement grew. It was the perfect chance to bring their own artistry to the heart of the ancient site.
Forging a Pact
Separated by time yet united by passion, the dancers made a promise: to co-create a single dance that fused traditional inspiration with contemporary technique. This pact was born from a shared desire to honor the murals and celebrate collaboration across eras.
When Art Becomes a Dialogue
Set to debut in the very caves that inspired it, the final piece will showcase how research and creativity can breathe new life into heritage. For global audiences, it’s a vivid reminder: in art, boundaries dissolve and time becomes a stage.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
