Shanghai Theatre Academy organizes a city walk in Shanghai for international students to experience Chinese culture. [Photo/Shanghai Theatre Academy]

Shanghai Theatre Academy's International Exchange Center recently organized a cultural activity for overseas students to explore Shanghai's traditional craftsmanship and art culture. 

Led by Wang Cheng, a professor from Shanghai International Studies University, the students took a stroll through iconic streets like Wukang Road, exploring the area's architectural and historical significance.

Wang provided a detailed explanation of the architectural styles, construction techniques, and historical anecdotes related to the Western-style buildings situated along Wukang Road. He drew from his experiences in Paris and his knowledge of French art and architecture to elaborate on the origins of Wukang Road and how French design and landscape styles are reflected in this cultural street.

During their tour, the students had the opportunity to explore several historically and culturally preserved buildings. These included the former residences of famous figures such as Chen Lifu, Yan Fuqing, Liu Jingji, and Gu Zhutong, which featured various European-style architectural designs like British, Spanish, and Mediterranean. One of the highlights of the tour was the Wukang Building located at the intersection of Wukang Road and Huaihai Middle Road. Here, they learned about the history, design styles, and famous actors who resided there. This experience allowed them to gain a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of this popular landmark.

The group visited the Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts, where Bao Sishi, a teacher of the institution, introduced a variety of exquisite craftworks. These included intricate carvings and embroidery pieces. Following this, the students then engaged in a hands-on workshop, creating dragon-shaped clay sculptures, allowing them to showcase their creativity and passion for traditional Chinese art.

The event concluded with students proudly displaying their unique creations, filled with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for China's rich cultural heritage.