A Chinese artist's giant golden bridge-shaped structure creation entitled "Golden Bridge on Silk Road" was recently unveiled at the Milan Expo.
The structure is interpreted as the artist's symbol abridging the Western and Eastern cultures. Standing at 6 meters with a length of 28 meters, the bridge also serves as an emblem of friendship, designer Shu Yong revealed.
The "golden bridge" took inspiration from the well-known Zhaozhou Bridge, which was built over a millennium ago in northern China, the 41-year-old artist further revealed. The bridge is still in use today.
Shu shared that his creation was made of disposable metals, as well as of 20,000 golden bricks, which were of the same size of those used in making the iconic Great Wall.
The said golden bricks are made of artificial amber and allows people to see various silk flowers inside. The silk flowers symbolize the sites along the land and maritime Silk Road.
Shu, in an interview, remarked that his "golden bridge" was also inspired by Chinese President Xi Jinping's "Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road" initiative.
The president's endeavor was launched in 2013. It aims to build a trade and infrastructure network linking Asia, Europe and Africa, serving as a platform to foster cooperation and cultural exchanges.
For Italian spectator Mario Masciullo, the "golden bridge" calls attention to China's rich history. It also highlights the artist's sentiment to revive the ancient Silk Road trade networks.
Shu has been known for employing Western and Chinese styles to convey diplomatic and cultural messages through various art media such as sculpture, photography, painting, installation and performance art.
After the display, he also invited the guests, Chinese and foreigners alike, to sign their names on the bricks and share their well wishes for the East-West cooperation.