Art gives hutong a sense of community

"For most people, the natural process of aging does not seem to require textbook explanations, but the indiscernible changes in our lives sometimes can be amplified and overwhelm us, and we are often flustered when dealing with issues caused by aging," a young participant of the first edition, under the pseudonym of Ujiang, wrote as she reflected on her experience.

"In fact, we need these conversations (between the young and the elderly). Once such conversation has been started, we will reshape our future and the future us."

The project then hosted its second edition in 2019. This year, to celebrate the centenary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, a special edition was held, joined by young and old Party members.

Rui Li, an elderly local resident, has been an active participant in the community cultural activities, being a member of the community dance team, and participated in the When I... Just Like You project. She says that she is very proud to be a resident here.

"Since the establishment of 27 Yard, we, the elderly who have nothing much to do after retirement, feel that our lives are becoming more meaningful and our sense of contentment has been enhanced,"Rui says.

"Many of the activities they organized were not only interesting, but also brought us inspiration, knowledge and thoughts. For example, we especially liked the art project When I ... Just Like You. It made me feel that I was young again and was able to relive my life."