As part of the inaugural Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo, the "Light of the Silk Road—2016 Cultural Year Exhibition Sculpture Invitational" was held at the outdoor plaza of the main exhibition hall in Dunhuang, Gansu province. Themed "Friendship, Exchange, Integration, and Coexistence," the exhibition stood out as a captivating highlight of the event.

The exhibition showcased 108 exceptional sculptures crafted by 106 sculptors from a diverse array of countries, including China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, India, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Belarus.

The participants represented a broad age spectrum, ranging from distinguished artists aged 88 to emerging talents as young as 28. Among them were several world-renowned masters of sculpture. This gathering of four generations of sculptors in Dunhuang's artistic haven marked an extraordinary and inspiring moment.

The sculptures were broadly categorized into six thematic groups: the ancient charm of Dunhuang and Buddhist stories, the Silk Road through history and the present, historical figures, the lives of various ethnic groups, impressionistic depictions of individuals, and abstract creations.

These works vividly depict the essence of life across different eras, showcasing the vibrant and multifaceted character of contemporary sculpture. They also offer profound reflections on the relationship between humanity and nature as envisioned by artists from around the globe.

A notable hallmark of this year's exhibition was its emphasis on diversity in materials, artistic expression, and stylistic approaches, underscoring the meticulous craftsmanship of the sculptors. Unlike monumental outdoor sculptures, these pieces were relatively modest in scale, making them ideal for private collections.

This invitational provided a rich platform for cultural and artistic exchange, weaving a compelling narrative that bridges history and modernity while celebrating the enduring legacy of the Silk Road.