Shenzhen is one of the richest cities in China, and it has seen astronomical rates of infrastructure development and economic growth due to the vast Chinese and foreign investment in the region since the late seventies, when it was merely a small rural village. Some of the tallest buildings in the world grace its skyline, impressive sentinels of gleaming glass and steel. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China, and it witnesses a massive influx of visitors each year. Shenzhen boasts a charming array of local attractions inspired by its international visitors and expatriates, and the most tangible symbol of this cultural fusion can be found at Dafen Oil Painting Village, which is famed for producing excellent quality replicas of the famous fine arts pantheon, featuring the exquisite creations of Monet, Van Gogh, Dali, Warhol and the like.
Dafen Oil Painting Village was once a small village with residents numbering in the few hundreds, before 1989, when a Hong Kong businessman and painter named Huang Jiang invested in a private property with a retinue of almost a dozen oil painters in order to start up a business of recreating famous artistic works. His investment paid off as international demand for the skilled reproductions grew, which enabled him to considerably expand his business to boast a collection of 500 artists. When you visit this quaint little artistic haven, there’s so much else to see and glean besides the stunningly accurate replicas. Visitors can purchase many beautiful original paintings, sculptures, calligraphy, arts and crafts and even artist supplies found in the spate of little shops that pepper the walkways of the village. In addition, local artists can able be commissioned for special projects at very low rates. Replica paintings are quite reasonably priced, and start from about RMB 150, depending on size and complexity.
It is quite a neat little enclave to visit and you can spend many glorious hours wondering the narrow, winding streets and explore the treasure trove of delights to be unearthed at each shop. Allow yourself to be transported into the world of creativity and finesse, as classical music strains grace the air, punctuated by the rich scent of the painting oils permeating the atmosphere. You might also enjoy visiting the newly constructed art museum, which showcases the finest works of both local and international artists. Directly adjacent to the museum is an impressive wall decorated entirely with sculptures at a cost of USD 71,000, which adds an element of rich depth to the village’s 2D offerings.
After a day spent exploring and sampling the creative wares, relax and unwind at one of the many rustic yet quality coffee shops in the area. Featuring a fine range of roasts from around the world, these elegant cafes don’t skimp on quality when it comes to brewing a cup of quality joe accompanied by a delicious treat. But don’t just stop at Dafen Oil Painting Village, as a visit to the vibrant city of Shenzhen opens up a new world of wonders simply waiting to be discovered. The perfect locale from which to do so is in the heart of the city, which is home to some quality Shenzhen serviced apartments designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers looking for a premium Shenzhen long stay apartment. Featuring an ideal central location that is close to fine dining, world-class entertainment and the city’s most prestigious financial and business institutions, the Ascott Maillen Shenzhen is the perfect choice for accommodation in this lively cosmopolitan hub on the Chinese landscape.