“There is no better way of escaping the world than through art, and no better way of connecting with it either.” — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

In 2025, we celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Nordic nations of Denmark and Sweden. For the Nordic Contemporary Art Center, this year also marks the ninth year since our arrival in Aotou, Xiang’an, and the 28th year since our founding in 1997.

Over the past three decades, we have remained committed to our mission—Discovery, Connection, Exchange, Advancement, and Education—and to our core philosophy of Artistic Local Globalism. As the first international art institution to settle in Aotou, we are also the only independent Chinese organization to maintain long-term cultural ties with the Nordic region. Through our efforts, the artistic spirit and human warmth of Scandinavia have been introduced into the local fabric of Aotou and Xiamen, sparking public engagement with contemporary art and intercultural exchange.

Through ongoing cross-cultural collaboration, we have built a vibrant “Art Plus” ecosystem that integrates exhibitions, residencies, education, creative industries, and community engagement—offering open and inclusive spaces for both international artists and local audiences to explore and connect.

At the same time, many Nordic artists have carried their experiences in Aotou—its sea breeze, streets, stories, and smiles—back to their homelands. Through postcards, paintings, and artist talks, Aotou has quietly found its way into the everyday lives and memories of Scandinavia. This reciprocal cultural current is at the heart of everything we continue to do.

The works presented here carry the thoughts and emotions of the artists we’ve encountered throughout this cross-cultural journey. They are living evidence of the enduring trust and mutual understanding between the Nordic region and China—a gentle yet powerful stream of creativity flowing once again into our shared space.

As we commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations with Denmark and Sweden, we hope this exhibition continues to foster international dialogue and artistic exchange—affirming art as one of the most meaningful ways to understand the world and connect with one another.

The Nordics are not far—meet us in Aotou.