2月9日，苏州国家历史文化名城保护专家咨询会议在苏举行，远在美国纽约的著名美籍华裔建筑师贝建中发来视频发言。
“The ancient city of Suzhou is a valuable legacy. We should act with a keen sense of responsibility to history and the people, work out a ‘Suzhou Plan’ for the world’s efforts in the preservation of ancient cities, and provide a paradigm for showcasing China’s cultural confidence,”said Cao Lubao, Member of the Standing Committee of CPC Jiangsu Provincial Committee and Secretary of the CPC Suzhou Municipal Committee, at the conference on preservation of historical sites in Suzhou.
With a history of more than 2,500 years, Suzhou was designated as one of the national historical and cultural cities (first batch) on February 8, 1982. Now 40 years later, Suzhou has become more and more beautiful and charming, but the view of “small bridges over flowing streams, white walls roofed with black tiles, and historical sites”is always an integral part of Suzhou’s most iconic cityscape.
To further review the city’s experience in the preservation of ancient city and provide useful reference for international preservation of historical and cultural heritages, Suzhou hosted a conference yesterday where experts and guests from academia gathered in Suzhou and discussed new measures for ancient city preservation.
Celebrated Chinese-American Architect Chien Chung Peijoined the conference via a video link.
The ancient city of Suzhou is a precious heritage.
The well preservation of former residence of celebrities, historic neighborhoods and the whole ancient city of Suzhou is attributable to each and every resident that cares about and support the great cause.
“I was born in the US, but my family and I consider Suzhou as our hometown. Our family’s home is still perfectly preserved in the ancient city of Suzhou. I’m very grateful to the Suzhou government for their ongoing efforts,” said Chien Chung Pei in the video.
“Back in 1999, my father, at the age of 82, accepted the invitation from Suzhou city to design Suzhou Museum. The philosophy, techniques and characteristics were fully integrated, so that the Suzhou Museumwas built in perfect harmony with its surroundings. Still at the same time, it caters to all the functional needs of a modern museum.
▲Suzhou Museum designed by Ieoh Pei, Chien Chung Pei's father.
"My father’s works can be seen all over the world and many of his buildings, such as Suzhou Museum, have become cultural landmarks over the years. In his opinion, good architectural design, while respecting the function of use, should always mirror the spirit of the country and the city as well as serve as a vision for the future,” said Pei, adding that his family looks forward to coming back to Suzhou, joining in the preservation of the ancient city and planning the future for the next generations.
▲Chien Chung Pei was present at Suzhou Design Week 2019
