“East Meets West Exhibition 2024” Is On

It is exciting and exquisite! “East Meets West” Painting Exhibition 2024 is now on our doorstep and not to be missed. This exhibition is a collaboration between the Confucius Institute at the University of Newcastle (CI) and the Hunter Wetlands Centre (HWC) based on the themes of the wetlands conservation and education, and the celebration of the Year of the Wood Dragon.

There are over 100 amazing painting submissions from our students, and community friends and families in New South Wales that cover Chinese painting on rice paper, acrylic, oil on canvas, and mixed media. They come in different expressions such as traditional Chinese “Gongbi” style (i.e., meticulous and detailed brushstrokes), and “Xieyi” style (i.e., free flow and freehand brushstrokes); western oil and acrylic paintings of wetlands and wildlife; pop-culture inspired video game character; and captivating depiction of majestic dragons, etc.

It has been almost impossible to pick and choose the artworks for limited selection of displays at the exhibition. Please come and check them out whether you are an art collector, simply enjoy all things beautiful, or love to spend time and have a cuppa at the Hunter Wetlands Centre. This is a unique occasion to shine light on the hidden talents in our region who are gifted with such artistic flair and creativity. This may also well be a treasure hunt as some of the paintings are from well-established Sydney-based Chinese artists.

The Power of the Wood Dragon

2024 is the year of the Dragon. The zodiac name is “Yang-Wood Dragon” and known as “Green Dragon” for wood is associated with green. A green dragon is believed to bring in transformation, regrowth, wisdom, and harmony. Dragon in Chinese culture is a symbol of power, strength, and nobility. They are the mythical creature that can appear on land, and in the sky and sea. They can also choose to hide behind the cloud or come out with ferocious roaring of fire or water.

No doubt, you will find a few of these dragons in this exhibition for the display of power and good luck to kick start 2024!

Hope to see you there! Happy Year of the Wood Dragon!