THE first Stone Gazing Festival wrapped up recently in Bao’an District. A range of activities such as stone gazing lectures, gala shows, charity auctions of ornamental stones and ornamental stone exhibitions not only opened Bao’an residents’ eyes but also spread the art of stone gazing widely in the community.

Ornamental stone manifests the plain but rich charms of nature. If mountains form picturesque scenery, then stone is a living book of history. Each stone can be interpreted in many different ways, which is the fun of stone gazing.

Stone gazing is an art waiting to be found. Since 2001 when Bao’an District held a national rare stone exhibition, a group of stone collectors and lovers have sprung to life. After 17 years, the launch of the stone gazing festival not only improved the district’s cultural taste but also pushed forward the stone gazing industry. As a result, Bao’an is able to forge high-end cultural brands and play a bigger role in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

(Wang Jingli)