Some of China's best known cultural icons - people who helped shape modern culture in this country are being recognized for their contributions.
There was an awards ceremony in Beijing's 798 art district. The ten winners are all leading figures in their fields.
Entertainment, fine arts and commercial heavyweights came out for the awards ceremony. Wang Xiaoshuai, was among those deemed to have made great cultural contributions. His film "In Love We Trust", won the Silver Bear Award at this year's Berlin Film Festival.
Wang's films - though critically acclaimed - have not been big box office winners. As an independent filmmaker, he's had to work under severe budget constraints. He expressed the hope that his projects will be able to attract more investment in the future.
Cinematographer turned director Gu Changwei also was recognized for his contribution. His first film "Peacock" was honored in Berlin. His second film "And the Spring Comes" is soon to be released.
Gu Changwei, director, said, "This award honors dreams, and the strength and the will to realize them. I feel rather humbled that I should be honoured in this way. Sometimes I make compromises with the reality - so I'm not like the lead character of "And the Spring Comes", who remains focused on her dreams in the face of hard reality."
Ten celebrities were given awards. Other honourees include, the founder of the Chinese web site "Netease," Ding Lei - painter Fang Lijun - percussionist Li Biao - and the CEO of "Huayi Brothers"' film production company, Wang Zhongjun.
