Confucius Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine at the University of Western Cape (CI-UWC) extended a warm invitation to staff of CI-UoM for a collaborative Chinese painting workshop which was held at CI-UWC campus. The workshop started on the 21st April and ended on 23rd April with an exhibition of the works of the participants. The Chinese Director Prof. Fu Mingduan, the Mauritian Director Dr. Naraindra Kistamah, Prof. Zhang Kangfu and Miss Li Xiaoxia of the Confucius Institute at the University of Mauritius (CI-UoM), hosted the workshop with the collaboration of staff of Confucius Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine at CI-UWC.
Prof. Zhang Kangfu demonstrating and teaching Chinese painting techniques
The Chinese painting workshop was led by Prof. Zhang Kangfu, with Miss Li Xiaoxia serving as the translator. Around 30 students from the University of Western Cape and the University of Cape Town participated. Prof. Zhang has nearly 30 years of teaching experience in painting in China and has also been teaching Chinese calligraphy and painting courses at CI-UoM for many years. At the outset of the workshop, Prof. Zhang introduced Chinese painting, with a special focus on the distinctive traits of freehand brushwork. He extensively covered various elements, ranging from the essential tools known as the "Four Treasures of the Study" - the brush, ink, paper, and ink stone - to the harmonious integration of poetry, calligraphy, painting, and seal engraving. Moreover, he explored diverse painting subjects such as landscapes, human figures, flowers and birds, while also offering insights into the appreciation of his own Chinese painting works. Prof. Zhang adeptly guided the students, leading them step by step into the enchanting realm of Chinese painting.
Students engaged in painting activity
The workshop mainly focused on teaching the students to paint orchids and plum blossoms, two elements of the "Four Gentlemen" (plum blossoms, orchids, bamboo, and chrysanthemums) in Chinese painting. Prof. Zhang demonstrated and explained while vividly showing how to display the charm of orchids and plum blossoms with concise and fluent brushwork. Since the students had never been exposed to Chinese painting or used a brush before, and many lacked basic painting skills, this experience was very novel for them. Under Prof. Zhang's guidance, they actively participated and attempted to integrate their understanding and imagination into their works. From being unfamiliar to gradually becoming proficient, the students started boldly outlining and adding colors, completing their own somewhat inexperienced yet interesting orchid and plum blossom paintings.
Group photos of participants with the CI-UoM delegation
To promote a better understanding of Chinese painting, the two Confucius Institutes held an exhibition of works by teachers and students at the library of University of Western Cape, with a total of 35 exhibits. One first, second, and third prize were awarded for student works, and all participating students received souvenirs. This workshop greatly aroused the local students' interest in Chinese painting
Award-winning students with the CI-UoM delegation
Participating students with the CI-UoM delegation and CI-UWC teachers
During the visit, CI-UoM delegation held exchanges with the International Relations Office of the University of Western Cape. CI-UWC Director Dr. Wu Changhong, Golden Key facilitators Ms Lauren Arendse and Ms Annah Chuene, SANORD facilitator Ms Nicole Umwizerwa, and Secretary Ms Rushni Salie from the International Relations Office UWC, participated in the exchange. During the discussion, both sides introduced the work of their respective departments and discussed prospects for future cooperation. Dr. Wu stated that the Chinese painting workshop was an important attempt at cultural exchange between the two Confucius Institutes and opened up new avenues for cooperation between them. Prof. Fu and Dr. Kistamah expressed hope for continued cooperation and welcomed the CI-UWC to the CI-UoM for exchange activities such as workshops on traditional Chinese medicine in the future.
Mrs Tracy Benett, Manager of International Relations of UWC, expressed her long standing interest to have a general MoU with UoM. CI-UoM hope that the visit will foster further discussions between the two institutions regarding potential collaborations, students’ exchange programme, language and cultural exchanges, and international academic cooperations.
A group photo of the CI-UoM delegation and participants from UWC International Relations Office and CI-UWC