Amid the vast Gobi desert and golden sands of the Silk Road lies Dunhuang—a treasure of art renowned throughout the world.
There’s a saying: “One can hardly call themselves a true Chinese without having been to Dunhuang; how can one call themselves an artist without stepping into Dunhuang?”
Faced with cave after cave adorned with murals and sculptures, exploring this millennia-old civilization would be impossible without guidance from experts who truly understand its essence.
The Dunhuang program offered by the KFSTA China Centre has been running for six consecutive years, receiving enthusiastic feedback from participants and witnessing a steady improvement in the quality of their work. This year, for the first time, the China Centre has partnered with experts from the Fine Art Research Institute of Dunhuang Academy, extending the learning experience to the very site of this ancient art and launching an exceptionally valuable study tour.
Integrating Scholarship and Technique
Exclusive cave visits: Enter rarely opened “special caves” (Mogao Caves 158 and 45, Yulin Caves 3 and 25)—revered by professionals—and experience firsthand the awe and wonder inspired by art created over a thousand years ago.
Thematic copying sessions: Select a theme from the special caves to copy, forming a complete cycle from observation and expert interpretation to analysis, creation, and presentation. This immersive workshop-style learning ensures highly effective outcomes.
Revealing traditional techniques: On-site analysis of original murals inside the caves—covering each step of the creation process—provides the ideal way to study these skills. In the experts’ studios, gain further insight into art historical context, the preparation of mineral pigments, and traditional coloring methods—an exceptional approach to artistic 传承 (inheritance).
Fieldwork and Experiential Learning
The ancient pass of Yumen: Touch the grandeur of the Han and Tang Silk Road gateway—a key part of the tour. Standing before the backdrop of China’s millennial culture, we connect with our historical roots.
The Yadan “Devil’s City” landform: A mysterious site sought after by famous directors for filming. After dusk, eerie howls render it uninhabitable—a spectacular natural wonder that fills us with reverence.
Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring: Ride camels or sandboard down Mingsha’s dunes; trace history and civilization at Crescent Moon Spring. Amid the interplay of desert and oasis, we reflect on the footprints of the Silk Road and leave our own mark.
Exceptional Value in Study and Travel
Rare academic resources: Both instruction by experts from the Dunhuang Academy and specially arranged professional cave visits offer uniquely valuable learning opportunities.
Historical and ecological education: From natural landscapes to cultural relics, from bustling city centers to desert art treasures—the tour offers reflections spanning millennia, grounding us in the present while connecting us to the past.
Chinese and Western art in dialogue: Here, Chinese dry frescoes; there, Western wet frescoes. Guided by an international curriculum integrated with local culture, the KFSTA China Centre fosters mutual understanding between Eastern and Western traditional arts.
Professional Arrangements and Services
Comfortable desert accommodations: Unlike the harsh conditions faced by the original cave artists, we stay in high-star hotels throughout—ensuring rest and rejuvenation in a modern, caring environment.
Dedicated transportation: Given the geographical conditions of the Western Regions, we provide safe, comfortable vehicles that meet local standards for a worry-free journey.
Full expert support: With academic guidance from specialist tutors, thoughtful logistical support from the travel team, and full documentation from the China Centre, we ensure a successful conclusion to the tour—culminating in the “Departure from Dunhuang” exhibition of student work.
This is the first extended study tour launched by the KFSTA China Centre. Places are limited and demand is high—we encourage early registration.
We are gradually building a community around the study of Chinese and Western traditional arts—a space where members share, communicate, learn joyfully, and grow together. Future tours to Hong Kong, Kyoto, London, and other destinations are already in planning.
This high-end study tour—rich in both academic depth and cultural appeal—serves as a practical demonstration of KFSTA’s teaching philosophy of “integrating theory and practice.” It is also a contemporary example of how the China Centre brings together Eastern and Western artistic traditions. We welcome you to join us in Dunhuang to embark on a dual journey of art and soul among ancient caves and desert vistas.
