China’s Art Scene Flourishes Virtually During Coronavirus Pandemic

by Jasmine June 17, 2025

written by Jasmine June 17, 2025

China’s Art Scene Thrives Online Amidst Coronavirus Outbreak

Museums Embrace Virtual Exhibitions

As the coronavirus outbreak continues to grip China, the country’s cultural landscape has adapted to the challenges of social distancing. Museums nationwide have embraced “cloud exhibitions,” offering virtual access to their collections and previously planned gallery programming.

The Chinese government has actively encouraged this shift, directing museums to “enrich the people’s spiritual and cultural life during the epidemic” with online exhibitions. Major institutions like the National Museum of China in Beijing, the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum, and the Chongqing Natural History Museum have all expanded their digital offerings.

Some exhibits, such as those at the Forbidden City’s Palace Museum, are only accessible within mainland China. However, approximately 100 online exhibitions can be accessed globally through the National Cultural Heritage Administration website.

Live Concerts Go Virtual

The suspension of live music events has not silenced China’s vibrant music scene. Legendary punk rock venue VOX Livehouse in Wuhan pioneered the concept of livestreaming concerts, sparking a nationwide trend.

Musicians, record labels, venues, and clubs are organizing “bedroom music festivals” and livestreamed club nights featuring a diverse range of genres, from pop and techno to punk and experimental improvisation.

“It’s like going to a karaoke parlor or being in a mosh pit without leaving your house,” says He Fan, singer of Beijing band Birdstriking.

Major events like the “Strawberry Z” livestream event, named after China’s largest annual outdoor music festival, have attracted widespread participation. Streaming platforms like Bilibili have offered free memberships to people in quarantine, providing a platform for connection and entertainment.

Artists Connect with Audiences Through Livestreams

Beyond music, artists are using livestreaming to connect with their audiences in creative ways. Bilibili spokesman Patrick Frater notes that some artists are livestreaming their everyday activities, such as cooking, exercising, and playing games.

“The cooking segments will be streaming during the evening around dinnertime,” says Frater.

These livestreams offer a glimpse into the lives of artists while providing a sense of community and reducing the boredom and anxiety associated with the outbreak.

Cultural Heritage Accessible to All

The virtual exhibitions and livestreaming events have opened up China’s rich cultural heritage to a wider audience. People around the world can now explore the terracotta warriors of Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an, visit the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, and take a 3D tour of the Forbidden City complex.

These digital initiatives not only provide entertainment and education but also serve as a reminder of the resilience and creativity of China’s cultural community in the face of adversity.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.