Summary
- Arc'teryx staged fireworks display at 18,000 feet in Tibet, triggering environmental backlash and government investigation
- Brand apologized on social media after 92 million people viewed posts about the controversy
- Artist Cai Guo-Qiang, who designed the display, also issued public apology acknowledging oversight
A fireworks display in the Tibetan mountains has created a storm of criticism for outdoor brand Arc'teryx. The Canadian company faces a government investigation after staging the event at 18,000 feet above sea level.
The "Rising Dragon" display took place Friday in Shigatse, Tibet's second largest city. Artist Cai Guo-Qiang designed the spectacle to resemble a dragon winding across the mountain peaks. Cai previously created fireworks for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Chinese social media users attacked the stunt as environmentally reckless. They pointed to the pristine ecosystem surrounding the remote location. Posts about the controversy reached 92 million people on Weibo within two days.
Local authorities responded Sunday by launching an official investigation. The Shigatse party committee formed a team to examine the site. Officials promised to handle the matter according to law and regulations.
Arc'teryx issued separate apologies on Instagram and Weibo Monday. The brand acknowledged the display contradicted its environmental values. On Instagram, Arc'teryx stated the event opposed their commitment to outdoor spaces and community.
The company offered different responses on each platform. The Weibo statement promised to invite a third-party environmental organization for assessment. The Instagram apology mentioned working with their China team but omitted the third-party evaluation.
State media outlet Global Times criticized this discrepancy. The publication questioned Arc'teryx's sincerity based on the different approaches. Some users interpreted the Instagram version as shifting responsibility to the China team.
Cai Guo-Qiang posted his own apology on Douyin, China's TikTok equivalent. The artist admitted to overlooking several factors in the planning process. He promised stricter measures for future projects and cooperation with authorities.
The controversy highlights tensions around commercial activities in sensitive environments. Arc'teryx targets China's growing middle class market for outdoor gear. The brand was acquired by Chinese consortium led by Anta Sports in 2019 after being founded in Canada.
Chinese netizens demanded stronger action beyond apologies. Some called for prosecution of officials who approved the display. One popular comment stated that art for earth should respect nature and living things.
The investigation continues as authorities assess any ecological damage. Arc'teryx faces scrutiny from both Chinese consumers and international audiences watching the company's response to the environmental concerns.
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Kristin Kaye
Insatiably curious about human expression, she immerses herself in literature, theater, art, and dance. Her academic journey led to degrees in Modern Literature, where she delved into The Furioso, and Historical Sciences with a focus on Contemporary History. Her studies took her to the prestigious Erasmus University Rotterdam, broadening her international perspective.
Her passion for culture isn't confined to personal enjoyment—it spills onto the pages of various publications. There, she explores not only artistic endeavors but also civil rights issues and the myriad ways human culture manifests itself. For her, writing about these topics isn't just a profession; it's an irresistible calling that stems from her deep-seated fascination with the human experience.