Participants pose for a group photo. [Photo/WeChat account: sodjn1960]
The 2025 Jiangnan University international design summer school concluded in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, on July 25. This 12-day event welcomed nine students from five European countries to explore Jiangnan's charm through cross-cultural designs.
Emil Tetzner-Harris recalled that arriving at JNU was exciting yet nerve-wracking. However, the warm welcome and the chance to see designs by Chinese designers made it worth it.
Sebastiano Massimo Barbagallo plays the guqin, the traditional Chinese musical instrument. [Photo/WeChat account: sodjn1960]
Sebastiano Massimo Barbagallo said that exploring Yangzhou, Suzhou, and Wuxi brought Jiangnan to life. The museums and streets showed him the perfect blend of traditional arts and modern design.
Ainhoa Nefeli Konstantinou-Kapretz admires an artwork showcasing Chinese classical craftmanship. [Photo/WeChat account: sodjn1960]
Ainhoa Nefeli Konstantinou-Kapretz said that although the language barrier and design differences posed challenges, they taught her the importance of non-verbal communication and how differences can fuel creativity.
Giulia Matteelli said that the cross-cultural design works were created to help find common ground among different cultures and spark creativity through cross-cultural exchanges. Matteelli said that she will definitely come to China and JNU again.
