Art often bridges the past and present, connecting us to centuries-old traditions while sparking deeply personal creativity. My recent experience in a Chinese Arts and Culture class beautifully encapsulated this idea. The culmination of months of practice and exploration was a small yet vibrant art exhibition that my classmate and I co-organized. Though the class consisted of just two students, our shared passion and dedication transformed this intimate setting into a meaningful artistic journey.
The exhibition was the highlight of our learning experience. Each of us showcased ten carefully crafted pieces, representing a blend of traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting techniques. My contributions included calligraphy in seal script and cursive styles, carved seals, and paintings of flowers and serene landscapes. The variety allowed me to explore different facets of Chinese art, from the precision of calligraphic strokes to the soft, naturalistic touches in painting.
One of the most enriching aspects of the exhibition was the interaction with attendees. A surprising number of people came to view our work, filling the room with curiosity and thoughtful energy. They asked detailed questions about our creative processes, the stories behind our pieces, and the challenges we faced during creation. Sharing my inspirations and hearing their perspectives made the event a lively exchange of ideas and appreciation, proving that art transcends language and cultural barriers.
A deeply personal thread running through this experience was my decision to adopt a Chinese name, 郑明珍. This name, however, was not chosen arbitrarily — it came to me during a solo trip to Taiwan. There, I encountered a fortune teller who, without any prompting or payment, handed me a piece of paper bearing these three characters. Initially, I didn’t think much of it, but upon returning home, I realized they were the exact Chinese translation of my Vietnamese name. The coincidence was both startling and meaningful, making this name feel like a bridge between my heritage and my artistic journey.
The art class itself was a haven of tranquility and focus. Guided by the patient and meticulous Professor Gao, I learned not only the technical aspects of Chinese art but also its underlying philosophy. Handling the delicate brushes, mixing vibrant inks, and practicing on carefully chosen papers felt almost meditative. Every brushstroke demanded intention, whether I was painting intricate flower petals or bold calligraphic characters. This hands-on approach allowed me to connect deeply with the art forms, moving beyond technique to appreciate their cultural resonance.
I also grew to understand the immense effort behind each artwork. Calligraphy, for example, requires both precision and fluidity, a balance that often took hours of practice to achieve. Seal cutting, on the other hand, taught me patience and the importance of detail. Each piece of art became a reflection of the time and care I poured into it, making the exhibition an intensely personal experience.
Reflecting on this journey, I am struck by how much I have gained — not just in skill, but also in understanding. The exhibition was more than a showcase; it was a celebration of tradition, effort, and creativity. It allowed me to connect with the rich history of Chinese art and share it with others in a way that felt authentic and fulfilling. The slow-paced, peaceful environment of the class provided the perfect space for this exploration, making the entire experience both rewarding and transformative.
As I look back, I am reminded that art is as much about the process as the result. This journey through calligraphy, painting, and cultural exchange has left a lasting impression, deepening my appreciation for the beauty and depth of Chinese traditions. It was a chapter of discovery, connection, and growth — a reminder of how art can weave the threads of history, culture, and personal identity into something truly meaningful.
By Fall 2024 Student Marselline.
Recently, Thomas Michael, a professor at The Beijing Center (TBC), was interviewed our staff and shared with us his perspective on studying Daoist thought and living in China. Professor Michael is a researcher at the School of Philosophy at Beijing Normal University.
Five Loaves and Two Fish is a volunteer organization centered on providing support and international education opportunities to the local migrant children who comprise its student body.
Snuff bottles represent a centuries-old cultural exchange between Europeans and the Chinese, where the import of tobacco products met the craftsmanship and artistry of Manchurian Beijing in the height of the Qing Dynasty. Manchu culture relished in entertainment and creature comforts, and snuff, being a mixture of ground tobacco and dried herbs, became very popular.
It’s not every day we get to make history! This week, The Beijing Center proudly welcomed—for the first time ever—27 curious and enthusiastic students from the University of Lima, along with Internationalization Coordinator Claudia Valencia and David Barriga, our partner from AsiaB Consulting, for an unforgettable Beijing adventure.