Exploring the trend of 'small town aesthetics' in China, the chapter dissects its blend of rustic charm and modern artistry and debates its portrayal of nostalgia vs. exploitation. It delves into the representation of small-town life, reflecting on the balance between honoring the past and accurately showcasing the diversity of contemporary county towns.
The popular "county town aesthetics" blends rustic charm with modern artistry. This nostalgic visual style recreates the vibe of 1980s and 1990s Chinese towns, nestled between rural villages and bustling cities. Yet, some small town residents now feel misrepresented by the oversimplified and sometimes condescending gaze. How can we better represent the true diversity and vitality of today's county towns through art, media and public discourse? On the show: Heyang, Ding Heng & Steve Hatherly.