Greek photographers take on Beijing in exhibition
By Gao Zhan
The photo exhibition "Greek Photographers Focusing on Beijing" held its opening ceremony in Beijing on March 29.
The exhibition, hosted by the Information Office of Beijing Municipal People's Government and supported by the embassy of Greece, showcased 120 pictures of Beijing by two Greek photographers.
George Doupas, one of the photographers, said they spent 10 days capturing the beauty and essence of Beijing. The photos not only record Beijing's historical and cultural protection, but also display the story of innovation, growth and prosperity of this ancient city, he said.
"Beijing has so many interesting things to do and see, it is a treat for the eyes to any photographer," Doupas said. "I've lived in Beijing already for nine years, and this city still surprises me and amazes me.”
Leonidas Rokanas, Greek Ambassador to China, delivered a speech during the opening ceremony. He said the photos were the international language that tied the people between Greece and China. "I was proud that the event could promote the relationship of the two countries," he said.
His speech was echoed by Xu Hejian, head of the Information Office of the Beijing municipal government. Xu said both Greece and China had 5,000 years of history and prosperous cultures, and the two countries have a well-developed and profound friendship. Through the exhibition, Xu said he believes that the beautiful stories of Beijing can be told and shared with everyone who comes to this city, so that more people can learn about and understand Beijing.
The exhibition was part of a photography event named "World Photographers Focusing on Beijing" that began in 1999. Over the past 18 years, the event has attracted more than 100 photographers from around the world to come to Beijing and capture a large number of precious photos on Beijing's people, landscape and attractions.
"Greek Photographers Focusing on Beijing" will stay in Beijing until April 5, then move to Greece to run from April 24 to May 6.