The village of Dafen, China was once thought (produce) the most oil paintings in the world every year. Recognized as the "world's art factory", Dafen impressed visitors with (it) many workshops, in which painters created mock (模仿的) masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet and Warhol. But the village was always seen more as a production linea place of culture. Today the future of Dafen may depend on it is able to earn respect of the art world.
Things started to change for Dafen in 2008, when the global financial crisis cut down overseas (order). With more demand coming from the domestic market, artists began painting different subjects. New customers preferred Chinese styles, says painter in Dafen. He learnt the art of Shan Shui which involves representing natural landscapes. In some ways Dafen reflected the broader economy. As export starts to decline as a share of GDP, domestic (consume) plays a larger role in driving growth.
China is the world's second-largest art market. But it is not clear where Dafen fits in. Locals say the demand for their paintings (decline) in the past two pandemic-stricken years. "Most people would (probable) be surprised that Dafen still exists," says Lisa Movius, a writer in Shanghai who covers art. (adapt) to the changes, maybe it is time that Dafen should go through a transition.
