April 20th marks the 15th United Nations Chinese Language Day. To mark it, a ten-day ‘Evolution of Chinese Characters’ exhibition has launched in London.
The exhibition is organised by the Chinese Embassy in the UK. It is co-organised by the Art and Design Press, National Museum of Chinese Writing, School of Foreign Languages (Tongji University), and the Beijing International Chinese College.
The opening ceremony attracted numerous guests and attendees from the UK. Guests included Minister Yang Xiaoguang and Minister Counsellor Xia Yuzi from the Chinese Embassy in the UK, Qian Zhu, President and Editor-in-Chief of Art & Design Press, Professor Wu Yun from the School of Foreign Languages (Tongji University), and the British sinologist Dr. Frances Wood.
They all have keen interests in Chinese culture and learning the Chinese language
The exhibition is supported by the Department of Typography & Graphic Communication (University of Reading), Nouvelles d’Europe UK Edition, Hangzhou Jicheng Culture & Art Co. Ltd, HengYuanXiang (Group) CO. LTD, and YANGHE.
Through the exploration of Chinese characters, visitors gained insights into the profound and extensive history of Chinese civilization and experienced the openness and inclusivity of modern-day China.
Chinese characters have played an incredibly significant role in the inheritance and development of Chinese historical and cultural traditions.
The history of Chinese characters can be traced back to at least the Xia Dynasty. Some 120 years ago oracle bone inscriptions were discovered in the Yin ruins of Anyang, China. These inscriptions provided a glimpse into the basic features of language and writing during the Shang Dynasty. Throughout history, the stability and continuity of the Chinese character system have enabled the sustained development and preservation of Chinese historical and cultural heritage in its pristine form. It is this enduring spirit of Chinese culture that continues to shine brightly, unbroken and uninterrupted, to this day.
During the exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a series of special events. This includes a lecture titled ‘Talk on Eastern and Western Culture’ by Professor Wu Yun from the School of Foreign Languages (Tongji University) on April 21st. On april 24th a seal cutting experience event will be guided by a professional from China National Academy of Painting. A talk on Diverse Writing Systems in China will be delivered by Dr. Cheng Xunchang from the University of Reading on April 27th. Finally, a Talk on traditional Chinese medicine and Chinese culture by Ke Songxuan, the Director of the Asante Academy of Chinese Medicine will be held on April 28th.
Through the medium of Chinese characters and the bridge of friendship, the exhibition and series of activities serve as a grand event for Sino-British cultural exchange. The diverse and fascinating experience of Chinese character culture builds a communication bridge between the two countries, facilitating the integration and collision of Eastern and Western cultures. Chinese and British audiences can personally experience the enduring heritage and aesthetic charm of Chinese characters, evoking a cultural resonance between the two nations.
If you liked this article why not read: Famous actress Cecilia Yip performs in the stage play ‘King Lear’ in England
