The “This Side of the Scenery” Calligraphy Exhibition of Five Regions (Macau Station)

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The “This Side of the Scenery” Calligraphy Exhibition of Five Regions (Macau Station), co-organized by the Macau Calligraphy Education Research Association and the Centre for Chinese History and Culture of the University of Macau, was inaugurated in the University of Macau Library on November 9, 2024. On the opening day, distinguished guests attended, including Professor Zhu Shutong, Director of the Centre for Chinese History and Culture of the University of Macau; Dr. Hou Mutian, General Manager of Macau Support Furniture&Construction Materuals Company LTD; Mr. Wang Jincheng Secretary – General of Shenzhen Calligraphers Association; Ms. Wang Xiaodan and Ms. Li Shuying, Director of Shenzhen Calligraphers Association; Mr. Wu Ren, Chairman of Hong Kong Cursive Script Calligraphy Academy; Mr. Chen Haorong, Vice – Chairman of Zhuhai Xiangzhou Calligraphers Association; Ms. Li Yaxuan and Ms. Zhang Zehui ,Director of Zhuhai Xiangzhou Calligraphers Association; Dr. Gong Baomei, Chairman of National Calligraphers Association of Macau; Mr. Zhong Jinxing, Vice – Chairman of National Calligraphers Association of Macau; Ms. He Yaoting, President of Macau Calligraphy Education Research Association; Professor Lun Yongshan, Chairman of Green Environment Protection Association of Macau; and the Vice – President of Guangdong Community Art Education Association and President of Calligraphy and Painting Research Association. Professor Zhu said that the continuous holding of the joint exhibition was of great significance. The calligraphers also wrote on the spot to congratulate the exhibition’s success! Their writing was fluid and dynamic, and every stroke contained profound cultural connotations and unique artistic styles. The silent dancers drove different rhythms, and through the ink fragrance, the paper presented the profound and extensive Chinese culture!
Everyone presents felt the charm and inheritance power of calligraphy.

A total of 120 outstanding works were exhibited in this event to celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of Macau’s return to the motherland. With lively brush and ink, the exhibition showcased the new social atmosphere, promoted traditional Chinese culture, and embodied harmony, integration, unity, and the ambitious spirit of the new era.

Tour Exhibition Schedule:
• September 25 to October 8 (Shenzhen Station): Shenzhen University Art Museum
• October 11 to November 1 (Ziyuan Station): Ziyuan County Stadium
• November 1 to 4 (Hong Kong Station): Tuen Mun Town Hall, Hong Kong
• November 6 to 11 (Macau Station): University of Macau Library
• November 18 to 25 (Zhuhai Station): To be confirmed

Festival of Chinese Culture Launches Themed Activities in Nanjing

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To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return to the motherland, on the afternoon of November 1st, 2024, the main campus of Jiangsu Second Normal University hosted the themed activities of the Macao Festival of Chinese Culture: “Understanding a Different Macao.”

Prof. Zhu Shoutong, Director of the Centre for Chinese History and Culture at the University of Macau, was invited to give a lecture titled “Telling a Different Macau from a Literary and Cultural Perspective” for the university’s “Soul Casting and Soaring: Literature, Culture, and the Literary Mind – A Series of Humanities General Education Lectures“. The lecture provided a literary and cultural interpretation of Macao’s history and the social psychological reality of Macao. Hosted by Secretary Peng Lin, she concluded that this not only presents a Macao that is different in historical and current cognition but also offers cultural insights that cannot be found in books.

Guangdong Red Culture Tour

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From October 11th to 13th, 2024, the “Guangdong Red Culture Tour” organized by the Centre for Chinese History and Culture (CCHC) of the University of Macau (UM) was successfully carried out. This event received strong support from the UM and was warmly welcomed by the people of Huizhou and Dongguan. A total of 28 participants, including teachers and students from the CCHC of the UM and Macao Chinese History and Culture Ambassadors, took part in this study camp. The camp aimed to deepen the understanding of the historical and cultural heritage of the Guangdong region among Macao’s teachers and students, and to enhance their recognition and pride in Chinese culture.

On the first day of the camp, the participants arrived at Luofu Mountain in Huizhou, known as the ” The First Mountain of Lingnan,” famous for its beautiful natural scenery and rich Taoist culture. Luofu Mountain has a profound cultural heritage, integrating Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism in one mountain. During the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Taoist figures such as Ge Hong, Bao Gu, and Huang Daxian practiced medicine, cultivated themselves to aid society, and wrote books here. Their miraculous legends and the beautiful landscapes became important subjects for poems and writings by famous literati like Li Bai, Du Fu, Su Shi, and Yang Wanli. Numerous poems, couplets, and cliff inscriptions also form the unique historical and cultural landscape of Luofu Mountain. The participants strolled through the mountain, feeling the fresh air and experiencing the long history and culture, gaining a deeper understanding of the natural scenery and Taoist culture in the Lingnan area.

On the morning of October 12th, the study camp visited Huizhou West Lake, known for the footprints of famous literati such as Su Dongpo. The participants enjoyed the elegance and talent of ancient Chinese literati amidst the lake and mountain views. In the afternoon, they visited the Hakka Women Scenic Area, a new era civilization practice base in Boluo County, which gathers the charm of Hakka culture spanning thousands of years. It is an industrial tourism area that integrates production and craft display, sightseeing, shopping, and Hakka cultural display, allowing people to deeply understand the history and characteristics of Hakka culture and experience the traditional handicrafts and cuisine of the Hakka people.

On the morning of October 13th, the study camp visited the Dongjiang Column Memorial Hall in Dongguan. The Dongjiang Column, also known as the Guangdong People’s Anti-Japanese Guerrilla Force Dongjiang Column, was a people’s anti-Japanese army created and led by the Communist Party of China in the Dongjiang area of Guangdong Province during the Anti-Japanese War. Here, the participants learned about the heroic deeds of the Dongjiang Column in the Anti-Japanese War and deeply felt the indomitable and selfless dedication of the revolutionary martyrs. In the afternoon, the study camp visited the Lin Zexu Memorial Hall. Through rich historical materials and cultural relics, the participants gained a more comprehensive understanding of Lin Zexu’s life and his outstanding contributions in the anti-opium campaign, enhancing their admiration for the national hero.

The study camp concluded its journey in Dongguan. Through this Guangdong historical and cultural study camp, the teachers and students from Macao visited the historical and cultural sites of Yue Dong, gaining a deep understanding and experience of the essence of Guangdong culture. This event was a journey of inheriting historical culture and continuing the national spirit, promoting the students’ understanding of Chinese culture, especially Lingnan and Hakka cultures.

Third Festival of Chinese Culture Reports Good News： The work “Talented Woman in Chaotic Times,” deeply participated in by our centre, has won the Excellent Award from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

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At the 10th China (Anqing) Huangmei Opera Art Festival held in the hometown of Huangmei Opera—Anhui Anqing, the Huangmei Opera piece created and performed by Shanghai JunDe Cultural Communication Co., Ltd. won the Excellent Performance Award from the National Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

“Talented Woman in Chaotic Times” is based on the character of Xia Shuji, a female poet from Jiangnan during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, the elder sister of the national hero Xia Wanchun. She embodies national integrity and concern for her country, depicting a painful historical episode written by a “wise and talented woman” during a time of turmoil. The lead actress, Hu Qian, is a specially invited as a mentor to the ambassadors for the promotion of Chinese historical culture at the Centre for Chinese History and Culture at the University of Macau. The titles of the productions “Talented Woman in Chaotic Times” and “Conquer the World” were written by Prof.Zhu Shoutong, the director of the centre.

It is reported  that the competition was highly competitive, with many national and provincial-level troupes participating. Among the award-winning productions, “Talented Woman in Chaotic Times” is the only award received by a non-governmental arts organization.

Talented Woman in Chaotic Times certificate.

 

 

“Chinese Heart · Macau Sentiment” Exhibition of Famous Calligraphy and Painting Works Successfully Held at the University of Macau’s Chinese History and Culture Center

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On September 6, 2024, the “Chinese Heart · Macau Sentiment” Calligraphy and Painting Exhibition by Renowned Artists of the Greater Bay Area was grandly held at the Centre for Chinese History and Culture, located in the Cultural Building of the University of Macau. The event was hosted by the University of Macau Alumni Association, together with the Centre for Chinese History and Culture (CCHC), the Macau Academy of Calligraphy, and the Shunde Gengmo Hall. The exhibition ran from September 5 to 12 and was held in the Exhibition Hall of Cultural Building (E34) at the University of Macau (UM).

During his speech, Chairman Dr. Ao Peng Kong of the University of Macau Alumni Association (AAAUM) expressed hope that this event would provide an opportunity for calligraphy and painting enthusiasts from Macao and other areas of the Greater Bay Area to gather and share their experiences. Following him, Vice President Zhao Weifu of the Macau Academy of Calligraphy delivered a speech, hoping to promote closer interaction and mutual enhancement between Macao and Mainland China’s calligraphy and painting arts.

出席開幕式嘉賓還有教青局代廳長李艷琪，澳門大學中國歷史文化中心主任朱壽桐，霍英東基金會總幹事史濠，澳門大學校友會理事長葛萬金，澳門書法院院長歐耀南、副院長溫子成，澳門陶然書法社社長阮毓明等。

Other distinguished guests at the opening ceremony included Acting Director of the Education and Youth Affairs Bureau, Li Yanqi; Director of the Centre for Chinese History and Culture (CCHC) of University of Macau(UM), Zhu Shoutong; Director-general of the Henry Fok Foundation, Si Hou; President of the Executive Committee of UM Alumni Association, Kot Man Kam; President of the Macau Academy of Calligraphy, Ao Io Nam; Vice President of the Macau Academy of Calligraphy, Wan Chi Seng; and President of the Macau Tao Ran Painting and Calligraphy Society, Un Iok Meng.

The exhibition featured more than sixty calligraphy and painting works, thirty of which were created by artists from Macao, while the rest came from artists in Zhuhai, Shunde, and other regions of the Greater Bay Area. The diverse styles of artists from different regions were well represented. The exhibition hall was filled with the rich fragrance of ink, as calligraphers gathered to share their artistic inspirations, exuding a passion for artistic creation in their conversations.

“The First Macao International Children’s Literature Award Ceremony and Chinese Children’s Literature Seminar” was successfully held in CCHC

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The first “Macao International Children’s Literature Award Ceremony” was held on 16 August 2024 in the auditorium of the Library of the University of Macau (UM), attracting more than 200 children’s literature writers and research experts. The award is jointly established by the Centre for Chinese History and Culture (CCHC) of UM along with several other institutions. Initiated in September 2023, it was aiming for promotion of the development of children’s cultural and creative industries and enhancing Macao’s influence in the international field of children’s literature.

Mok Kai Meng, vice-rector of UM, delivered a welcome speech, emphasizing the importance of the competition to the future cultural development of the country and the nation. Wu Yiqin, vice chairman of the Chinese Writers Association, mentioned in his speech that this award is of great significance to cultivating young people’s literary interest and cultural self-confidence, and injects new vitality into Macao’s cultural prosperity. Lo Song Man, vice president of the Federation of Associations of Cultural Sectors of Macau, quoted data and pointed out that nearly 40% of local writers pay attention to children’s literature, mostly educators, which helps their works to be close to children’s growth and education. Yu Qi, the representative of the Jiangsu Association for Friendship and International Exchanges, said that the establishment of the award responded to the call of the party and the state to discover and promote outstanding children’s literature works.

Guests who attended the award ceremony also included Yin Rutao, Deputy Director of the Department of Publicity and Culture of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR, and Cheng Yanxi, Representative; Xu Xinyuan, the Member of the Administrative Committee of the Cultural Development Fund of the Macao SAR Government; Ma Yingying, President of the Associação dos Autores de Macau; Wang Quangen, Professor from Beijing Normal University; Fang Weiping, Professor from Zhejiang Normal University; Wang Binbin, Professor from Nanjing University; Li Xuewu, Professor from Jinan University; Cui Qinglei, Executive Editor of “Contemporary Chinese Literature Research” of the China Writers Association; Jiao Heran, Editor from the “Wenyi bao” newspaper; and Pang Chap Chong, Dean of Students at UM and others.

On 17 August, CCHC held the “Chinese Children’s Literature Seminar” to deepen the academic discussion and exchange of children’s literature. Zhu Shoutong, director of CCHC of UM, pointed out that children’s literature, as a bridge connecting the past and the future, adults and children, has unique value and mission. He encouraged interdisciplinary communication and integrated multiple perspectives into the research as well as creation of children’s literature, so as to make it an important carrier to reflect the spirit of the times and inherit the essence of culture.

 

 

 

 

 

CCHC successfully held the Lingnan Culture Advanced Seminar for Students of Hong Kong and Macao for cultural inheritance promotion

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Students and faculty from Soochow University learn about Macao’s history and culture at UM

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To promote academic exchanges between Macao and Suzhou, the Centre for Chinese History and Culture (CCHC) of the University of Macau (UM) and Soochow University jointly organised a three-day training programme on Chinese culture promotion. A total of 26 students and faculty members from Soochow University participated in the programme at UM to enhance their understanding and knowledge of Macao’s history and culture.

 

Zhu Shoutong, director of CCHC, said at the opening ceremony that the activity could strengthen academic exchanges between the two places and promote the development of academic research. Ji Jinping, director of the Student Affairs Office of the School of Chinese Language and Literature at Soochow University, encouraged students to immerse themselves in the cultural atmosphere and academic environment of UM.

 

 

 

 

During the programme, students and faculty members from Soochow University attended workshops on a variety of topics, including Macao’s culture, children’s literature, and traditional Chinese poetry. They also visited the Suao Pavilion, the University Gallery, the UM Library, and the Wall of Great Wisdom at UM.

UM holds First International Forum on Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture

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The Centre for Chinese History and Culture (CCHC) of the University of Macau (UM) held the First International Forum on Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture. The forum brought together experts, scholars, and leading figures in the field of Chinese medicine from around the world to discuss the close connection between health and Chinese medicine.

Zhu Shoutong, director of CCHC, said in his speech that, Chinese medicine is a treasure of traditional Chinese culture, hoping that the forum would enable participants to discover new values in the Chinese cultural system by bringing together Chinese medicine and traditional culture. Li Peng, deputy director of the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences at UM, said that Chinese medicine does not only represent an industry that the Macao SAR Government has focused on in recent years, but also is a research field that the university greatly supports. He added that the forum could take advantage of Macao’s role as a bridge for cultural exchanges between China and the West, and promote Chinese medicine on the international stage.

The forum featured Maha Guru Anand, a Malaysian practitioner of Chinese medicine and an international yoga instructor, as a speaker. Maha Guru has extensive experience in both medicine and yoga and is dedicated to promoting physical and mental health education. He mentioned that Chinese medicine deserves more attention in the medical field as it can explain the complex relationships between different parts of the human body. During the forum, experts and scholars held in-depth discussions and exchanges on various topics, such as the integration between Chinese medicine and natural medicine, and the development trend of Chinese medicine in the context of technological advancement.

李鵬致辭

Focusing on Future Development and Enhancing Influence —— The 2024 Academic Committee Annual Meeting of the Centre for Chinese History and Culture was convened successfully

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The Centre for Chinese History and Culture (CCHC) at the University of Macau (UM) successfully held its 2024 Academic Committee Annual Meeting on 7th April 2024. The meeting was presided over by Zhu Shoutong, the Director of the CCHC. During the meeting,  Wu Zhiliang, the Chairman of the Academic Committee of CCHC, met with all the members of the academic committee and engaged in thorough discussions and exchanges on the suggestions proposed by the members. The suggestions encompassed a range of areas including the acquisition of research resources, the creation of the Centre’s unique characteristics, the development of publications, and the establishment of an academic criticism centre. These suggestions are highly directive and practical for the future development of the Centre.

At the meeting, Zhu Shoutong first reviewed the Centre’s achievements over the past year, particularly the notable success in promoting the study of Chinese history and culture and its dissemination in Portuguese-speaking countries. Additionally, he pointed out the challenges faced by the Centre in its future development and emphasized the importance of actively seeking more support to make greater contributions to China’s academic research and cultural dissemination.

The suggestions put forward by the committee members are of guiding significance for the Centre’s future development such as actively seeking research resources and financial support, refining tender and project designs, strengthening the quality of publications, and establishing a dedicated criticism centre. All of these are aimed at expanding the research team, enhancing influence, and further promoting the education, research, and dissemination of Chinese history and culture.