APEC media delegation explores Longhua's art, heritage and design

Journalists and digital creators from several APEC member economies explored two of Longhua District’s signature cultural landmarks on June 26, offering a glimpse of how the district is strengthening its international profile through cultural heritage, artistic exchange and creative design ahead of the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, to be held in Shenzhen in November. 

The visit began at Guanlan Original Printmaking Base, where a nearly 300-year-old Hakka village has been transformed into one of Shenzhen’s leading centers for contemporary printmaking while preserving its historic character. Nestled among ponds, bamboo groves and traditional residences, the base brings together cultural heritage, ecological conservation and artistic innovation.

Since its establishment, the base has hosted more than 2,000 artists from over 100 countries and regions through residency programs, exhibitions and academic exchanges. In the first half of 2026, 16 overseas artists from 15 countries and regions participated in residency projects. During the tour, the delegation visited printmaking workshops and met resident artists from countries including Iceland, Russia, Chile and Germany, gaining firsthand insight into the base’s role in fostering cross-cultural collaboration.

APEC media representatives observe a printmaking demonstration during a visit to Guanlan Original Printmaking Base in Longhua District. Photos by Cai Weize

The base has also launched an APEC-themed printmaking initiative inviting artists from member economies to create original works inspired by green development, digital innovation and cultural exchange. The collection will be unveiled at an exhibition in November. 

The delegation also visited the International Artist Village, where more than 20 restored Hakka residences have been converted into studios and living spaces for artists. The village demonstrates how historic architecture can be adaptively reused to support contemporary creative practice while preserving the cultural landscape.

From centuries-old heritage, the tour shifted to contemporary design at the Marisfrolg headquarters in Dalang Subdistrict. Inspired by the form of a seabird, the landmark was designed by New Zealand firm Architecture Van Brandenburg, led by Fred and Damien van Brandenburg. Its sweeping curves, biomimetic forms and creative reuse of recycled materials reflect the fashion company's emphasis on craftsmanship, sustainability and innovative design. The campus is planned to evolve into a multifunctional destination integrating offices, exhibitions, fashion experiences, cultural tourism and hospitality.

APEC media representatives tour the Marisfrolg headquarters in Longhua District. 

Together, the two landmarks present complementary facets of Longhua’s cultural identity: one rooted in heritage conservation and global artistic exchange, the other defined by contemporary architecture and creative industries. The visit offered international media a closer look at how Longhua is building cultural connections through creativity, openness and design.