Mulan county to get new art center

An artist's impression of the Ma Xu Wenbo Art Center in Mulan county, Harbin [Photo/MY399.COM]

A new art center is to be built in Mulan county, Harbin, following a generous donation from a local resident.

Ma Xu, China's first female paratrooper, has donated her lifesavings of 10 million yuan ($1.49 million) to ensure that the center can be built.

Construction is due to start this May, with the new art center expected to open in October.

Ma, who was born in in the county in 1933, is dedicated to supporting education and public welfare, and as a result of her generosity the Ma Xu Wenbo Art Center will soon become a reality.

The new center will have a floor area of 3,000 square meters and house artwork covering three floors. It will also contain an exhibition hall, lecture theater, an events room, and a special room dedicated to screenings.

Architects plan to design the new building so that its roof resembles a parachute, paying tribute to Ma's former career.

Once the center opens, local children will be able to access free courses teaching calligraphy, painting, dancing, and music –– providing a cultural education for local youths.