Art beat in January

Subtle with wood

Li Chao and Wang Yi, two rising artists in Guangzhou, are displaying their wood-carving and wood-engraving works at Kui Yuan Gallery until Jan 21. The two art forms have a long history in China, but what people see today is mostly influenced by a Western aesthetic. The two artists try to bring back the oriental aesthetic to the arts such as mellow lines. Visitors will find interesting ironies hidden in the exhibits to reflect the artists' thinking about contemporary life.

10 am-10 pm daily until Jan 21. Kui Yuan Gallery, Xuguyuan Lu (Road), Yuexiu district, Guangzhou. 020-8765-9746.

Young cross-talker

Cao Yunjin is one of the most popular young cross-talk performers in China. The 29-year-old, who started learning cross-talk, or xiangsheng, in 2002 with renowned actor Guo Degang, is known for performing traditional pieces and innovative new works. The versatile actor also hosts TV shows and performs in theaters. He will feature in a show marking the end of the Chinese Year of the Snake along with other young Chinese cross-talk performers.

7:30 pm, Jan 24. Poly Theater, Poly Plaza, 14 Dongzhimennan Dajie (Street). Dongcheng district, Beijing. 400-610-3721.