Paint Like a Dunhuang Artisan: Mural-Inspired Workshop in Xi’an

€5.00

In this immersive painting experience, you’ll step into the role of a Dunhuang mural artisan, inspired by the legendary wall paintings of the Mogao Caves.

The motifs you’ll work with are drawn directly from historical murals — floral vine patterns, celestial ceiling designs, Tang dynasty figures, and imagery shaped by the Silk Road. Using traditional color layering techniques, you’ll slowly build your painting stroke by stroke, allowing the colors to soften and blend naturally.

Your artwork is created on textured linen canvas, designed to echo the surface of ancient murals. Once finished, it becomes a decorative piece you can take home — a personal, tangible memory of northwest China’s artistic heritage.

This is not about painting perfectly.
It’s about experiencing how art, history, and patience once came together — and still can.

Please note:

  • The listed price is a non-refundable reservation fee. The remaining 288 RMB can be paid on-site during the experience.

  • A minimum of 2 guests is required to run the activity. Solo travelers are warmly welcome to book — if we don’t reach the minimum number, you’ll receive a full refund.

Our experience usually starts at 2:00 PM local time, but if it’s just your group, we can be flexible and start at a time that works best for you! (Duration: Approx. 1-2 hours)

Hosted in English

In this immersive painting experience, you’ll step into the role of a Dunhuang mural artisan, inspired by the legendary wall paintings of the Mogao Caves.

The motifs you’ll work with are drawn directly from historical murals — floral vine patterns, celestial ceiling designs, Tang dynasty figures, and imagery shaped by the Silk Road. Using traditional color layering techniques, you’ll slowly build your painting stroke by stroke, allowing the colors to soften and blend naturally.

Your artwork is created on textured linen canvas, designed to echo the surface of ancient murals. Once finished, it becomes a decorative piece you can take home — a personal, tangible memory of northwest China’s artistic heritage.

This is not about painting perfectly.
It’s about experiencing how art, history, and patience once came together — and still can.

Please note:

  • The listed price is a non-refundable reservation fee. The remaining 288 RMB can be paid on-site during the experience.

  • A minimum of 2 guests is required to run the activity. Solo travelers are warmly welcome to book — if we don’t reach the minimum number, you’ll receive a full refund.

Our experience usually starts at 2:00 PM local time, but if it’s just your group, we can be flexible and start at a time that works best for you! (Duration: Approx. 1-2 hours)

Hosted in English

What You'll Do

  • Learn about the history and visual language of Dunhuang murals and Silk Road art

  • Choose authentic mural-inspired motifs, including floral patterns, celestial ceilings, and Tang dynasty figures

  • Practice traditional color layering techniques used in mural painting

  • Paint on textured linen canvas designed to resemble ancient wall surfaces

  • Create a finished artwork that can be taken home as a decorative piece

  • Enjoy a calm, immersive afternoon in a courtyard near Xi’an’s ancient city walls

Cancellation policy

We’ll confirm your booking the day before the experience. If you need to cancel or reschedule, feel free to send us an email at isacuration.shop@gmail.com. — we’ll be happy to assist you!