The World Ice Art Championship is underway in Italy, officially part of the cultural program of the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.  

The competition features 23 sculptors from 17 countries, all transforming massive blocks of ice into intricate works of art using chainsaws, chisels, and years of experience. Among them is Ji Huailong, a veteran Chinese competitor who says the championship represents the highest level of the discipline.

"It's my honor, and I feel very happy to be part of this competition," Ji told CGTN. "I believe it’s the best in the world."

'Deep and symbolic'

According to Amelio Mazzella, President of the World Ice Carving Association, the championship is judged on far more than technical skill alone.

"The judges look first at the artistic impression," Mazzella explained to CGTN. "They consider the proportions of the sculpture, how the ice itself is used and how much."

One of Ji Huailong's sculptures, featuring two fish, carries a deeper symbolic meaning.

"The sculpture represents both Italy and China," he said. "Like old friends meeting in a river."

That message of cultural exchange is a key theme of the event. Roberto Di Stefano, Mayor of Sesto San Giovanni, says the championship reflects growing ties between Italy and China at a local level.

"We have organized an agreement with the Wenzhou region," Di Stefano said. "Many investors from China live and work here in Sesto San Giovanni, and we're working together to find business solutions." 

A bridge between cultures

The international dimension was highlighted by Liu Kan, China's Consul General in Milan, who sees ice art as a bridge between cultures.

"I sincerely hope that China and Italy can further cooperation in the fields of the ice industry, culture, and science and technology," Liu told CGTN.

The World Ice Art Championship follows in the tradition of China's world-famous Harbin Ice Festival, which attracts millions of viewers and visitors each winter. 

Some of the artists competing in Italy have previously taken part in the Harbin event, and the top three competitors from the event in Sesto San Giovanni will be invited to Harbin next year. 

Over the next two days, the sculptures will be judged by an international panel of experts, with the final awards ceremony scheduled for Sunday.

As Italy prepares to welcome the world for the Winter Olympics, the championship offers a preview of how the Games will celebrate sport, culture, and international collaboration.