Students and experts from Wenzhou-Kean University and from Kean University in the United States pose for a group photo in Dongtou, Wenzhou. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]
The Dongtou International Design-Build Festival kicked off in Dongtou district of Wenzhou city on Jan 10 – bringing together over 40 architecture experts, students and faculty from Wenzhou's Wenzhou-Kean University and from Kean University in the United States.
Participants are embarking on an eight-day journey to create public art installations that showcase Dongtou's coastal charm while embracing sustainability and resource regeneration.
Divided into four teams, the group will transform discarded materials – like fishing nets, pipes and bottles – into eco-friendly artworks that blend natural light with structural aesthetics. It's hoped the installations will become iconic attractions at Dongtou's Zhongyu Scenic Area, adding fresh appeal to the region's cultural tourism.
Chinese and American students work on a project together. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]
Lauryn Repollet, an architecture student at the Micheal Graves College School of Public Architecture at Kean University, said the event was a great opportunity for students from both countries to learn about each other's cultures, work together and keep the fruits of their collaboration in Dongtou.
As one of China's 14 island districts and a 4A-rated tourist destination, Dongtou's very special marine culture and eco-tourism ambitions are said to resonate with Kean University's global expertise.
The event also included a cultural immersion tour, with visits to Dongtou landmarks such as Wanghailou Tower and the Haiyao Art Center – allowing participants to experience the island's maritime traditions and intangible heritage.
This festival is seen as fostering cultural exchanges and also highlighting the transformative power of art and sustainability.
A teacher and a student talk about a project. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]
A bamboo-inspired work that is a joint design and creation of Chinese and American students. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]
Another installation that is the fruit of the joint labor of Chinese and US students. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]
Chinese and American students turn bottles into decorations. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]
