From Arte Povera (poor art) to the Transavanguardia, Italy — one of the major theaters of avant-garde art movements after World War II — has played a vital role in shaping the global contemporary art scene in the second half of the 20th century. These developments unfolded across various artistic fields, including painting, one of humanity's oldest art forms.

Beyond the Mirror, an ongoing exhibition of Italian contemporary art in Beijing, focuses on avant-garde trends in Italian painting since the 1960s. Featuring works by 13 artists, the exhibition highlights distinctive perspectives and working methods that redefine perceptions of urban landscapes and humanity's relationship with nature, offering a moment for philosophical reflection.

The exhibition coincides with the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Italy and looks ahead to deeper cooperation in the fields of economy, art, and culture. It runs through March 10 at the Guardian Art Center in Beijing.