The theme of the Chinese pavilion has been announced for the upcoming 2023 International Architecture Exhibition (IAE) in Venice. Chinese architects and artists will tackle the issue of how cities could be revitalized with new designs, while preserving their cultural characteristics and traditions. 

The Chinese pavilion has always been a highly anticipated showcase of modern Chinese architecture and design, and this year's IAE will be no exception. 

Based on the theme of "Renewal: A Symbiotic Narrative,” the design exhibition from China will zoom in on sustainable urban and rural development in response to the wider event theme, "The Laboratory of the Future." 

At a press conference in Beijing, Ruan Xing, curator of the exhibition, revealed plans to offer a glimpse into the country's 40 years of urbanization by focusing on case studies in Shanghai. He noted that the city’s population exploded from 11 million to 25 million over this period, while the per capita living space also jumped from 4.5 to 37.4 square meters, marking an incredible change.  

Ruan told CGTN they hope to show the symbiosis among cities, people and nature. "We would like to tell this interesting concept of renewal. On the one hand, there's the change, on the other hand, it is always supported by the cultural context of continuity," he said.

Held within the framework of the Venice Biennale, the International Architecture Exhibition is one of the most significant global art events of the genre. 

Since 2005, China has been holding its pavilion exhibition at the Biennale, bringing inspiration and vitality to the development of world architecture. 

Ruan said the event has always been a platform to learn from other cultures, and from their contemporaries in other countries. "On the other hand, I think it's also gradually becoming an opportunity for more equal dialogue," he added. 

The 18th edition of the IAE will open to the public from May 20 to Nov. 26 in Venice. 

The Chinese pavilion exhibition will also be made available online.