VIRTUAL Barcelona

Abstract

The contemporary expansion of urban areas and the gentrification of traditional districts pose challenges to urban culture and residents’ identityThrough the lense of “clay roof tiles”, a featured architectural component of siheyuan in Hutongs, the author wish to present a discourse on impact of reloation on the urban identity and sense of belongings. since the establishment of the ‘New China’ and subsequent economic reforms, demolition of traditional courtyard structures and integration of “Hutongs” with modern buildings have led to a notable transformation in the urban landscape. Thousands of residents in Hutong have been relocated to newly constructed highrise buildings outside the city. Through methods of personal ethnography and artistic practice, researchers explore the role of “clay roof tiles” as a cultural and visual element in contemporary Chinese cities, as well as their involvement in the construction of new urban identities. The conversations with the space, residents and self through the practice reveal a discontinuity in the urban memory and a disconnection from urban culture for the new generation of residents. Preserving the visual memory and cultural identity of the city is thus a critical and pressing matter that requires attention.