Lingnan University organises opening ceremony of Chamber of Young Snow Art Exhibition Hall and 1st themed exhibition on ’Sensing Things’

The Chamber of Young Snow supports the establishment of the Chamber of Young Snow Art Exhibition Hall, and graciously shares its collection with the public.

Lingnan University held the naming ceremony and the first exhibition of the Chamber of Young Snow Art Exhibition Hall on campus yesterday (30 October). Supported by the Department of Digital Arts and Creative Industries of Lingnan University and the Chamber of Young Snow, the five-year cultural project received generous funding from the Chamber of Young Snow to support the establishment of the Chamber of Young Snow Art Exhibition Hall, and for graciously sharing its collection with the public.

The theme of this exhibition, "Sensing Things", showcases private collection and treasures on loan from the Chamber of Young Snow, mainly of historic Chinese paintings and ceramics spanning from the Song Dynasty to the 20th century. About 30 exquisite artworks are displayed to illustrate the meanings and sensibilities of the ancients had expressed and accumulated and reflect on how they can offer inspiration and motivation to the present life, highlighting the philosophies, values, and worldviews of artists throughout different periods in China.

Among the thirty artworks, the most spectacular is the Polychrome Stucco Fresco Fragment from Yuan/Ming dynasty (Figure 1). The rectangular panel painted with polychrome pigments with the details gilded and in relief. Another masterpiece, titled "Poolside Studio" (1939) by renowned modern Guangdong artist Li Yanshan (Figure 2), is an example of 20th-century painters copying the tradition of Yuan Dynasty landscape painting through the orthodox painters of the early Qing Dynasty, captures the essence of Lingnan garden. It has been exhibited in various places such as Beijing, Taiwan, and Hong Kong Museum of Art.

Other highlights include the "Fishing Boat in the Moonlight" created in the 1930s by Chen Shuren (Figure 3), one of the founding painters of the Lingnan School that emphasises the integration of classic and the spirits of the times, drawing from the West to enrich the East. This painting vividly portrays a fishing village built on water under the tranquil autumn moon. The essence of the painting lies in its seemingly abandoned scene, resembles the Southern Song partial-view composition. Viewers can sense the artist's reflection on the social and political situation of their country through the emotions depicted in the artwork.

Dr Stephen Li Shi-cheng, Chamber of Young Snow said that the exhibition invites viewers to explore a profound connection with the featured works and their creators through an awareness of one's own perceptions of the objective world. "I aspire to enhance the public's understanding of Chinese culture and art through art exhibitions. I also have high hopes for the Hall to organise more Chinese art appreciation and educational activities, in order to rouse the public's interest in Chinese art. The public can then further explore the rich cultural heritage of China, and gain a renewed appreciation for the value and significance of Chinese culture," he said.

Mr Andrew Yao Cho-fai, Council Chairman of Lingnan University, expressed his sincere appreciation to Dr Stephen Li for his invaluable support to Lingnan University. He said: "This project holds immense potential in deepening our understanding of Chinese art within a global context and fostering a greater appreciation for Chinese culture among a wider community. I am also thrilled to share with you the latest art developments at Lingnan University. We take immense pride in announcing the establishment of our new campus at the West Kowloon District to accommodate the diverse needs of our programs, including Cultural Management and Digital Future, as well as Heritage Tourism and Management."

Prof S. Joe Qin, President and Wai Kee Kau Chair Professor of Data Science, said that the Art Exhibition Hall not only benefits Lingnan students and staff but also serves as a valuable community hub. "With the addition of the Chamber of Young Snow Art Exhibition Hall, our art students, particularly those studying Curating and Art History, as well as Arts and Cultural Heritage Management, can have invaluable opportunities to deepen their understanding of Chinese art and history, refine their artistic sensibilities, and develop their skills in curation and exhibition management. Moreover, it provides an opportunity for the local neighborhood community, including local primary and secondary schools, to gather and appreciate the rich tapestry of Chinese art and history," he said.

The first exhibition "Sensing Things" is open to the public with free admission from now until 29 November 2024.

Chamber of Young Snow Art Exhibition Hall 1st themed exhibition on 'Sensing Things'

Date: from now until 29 November 2024

Venue: 3/F Patrick Lee Wan Keung Academic Building, Lingnan University

Opening Hours: 10:00am - 5:00pm daily, closed on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays

Fee: Free