Much of China’s rich cultural heritage is at risk. This is mainly due to lack of awareness and poor enforcement of Chinese heritage-protection laws, which are well conceived but poorly implemented. In a time of extreme economic development and social change, Beijing Cultural Heritage Protection Center (CHP) – a non-profit organisation – helps to support local communities and fights to protect their cultural heritage.
Beijing’s landscape is dramatically changing. Gone are the small hutongs, once characteristic of the city, as well as the way of life associated with courtyard lifestyle. Now, ubiquitous towering skyscrapers dominate instead. To highlight the importance of preserving Beijing’s unique cultural heritage, CHP celebrates old Beijing with Do You Hutong? – a cocktail party featuring a collection of individually commissioned siheyuan (courtyard) gate artworks.
