Exploring Cultural Harmony: Lanting Chinese Calligraphy Culture Salon held at CCCNIG

Lanting Chinese Calligraphy Culture Salon hosted by the China Cultural Center in Nigeria (CCCNIG), a testament to the deepening cultural ties between the two nations, showcased the beauty and intricacy of Chinese calligraphy while fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.

Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of CCCNIG Mr Li Xuda giving his Opening Remark

Kicking off with the national anthems of both China and Nigeria, attendees were welcomed by the esteemed Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of CCCNIG. He welcomed distinguished guests for gracing the beautiful event on behalf of the Chinese Embassy and CCCNIG. He further said in his remarks as stated " When it comes to Chinese calligraphy, we want to say that it has a long history of development. It is not only the accumulation and essence of thousands of years of Chinese civilization, but also a treasure of world culture and art. In ancient China, there were lots of famous Chinese calligraphers. Among them, Wang Xizhi was regarded as the "Sage of Calligraphy". His work "Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Collection" is hailed as the pinnacle of ancient Chinese calligraphy. It not only plays an important role in art, but also is one of the symbols of Chinese culture"

Permanent Secretary of Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, & Creative Economy Representative Delivering Goodwill Message (Photo by Mrs. Chen Huiling)

President of the Society of Nigerian Artists, Mr. Mohammad Suleiman, and the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy represented by Mr Benugo Director in the Ministry, shared heartfelt goodwill messages, emphasizing the importance of cultural collaboration in fostering understanding and unity. The permanent Secretary in his goodwill message said that the Nigeria - China bilateral cooperation has been a win - win affair that promotes cultural Exchange and Expertise. He continued by saying having Chinese calligraphy in Nigeria will be a great achievement whereby making it a tourist hub of the Chinese cultural centre in Nigeria where scholars and lovers of Chinese character can come learn the pattern of writing. He ended by reaffirming Nigeria's commitment towards healthy co-operation with china and to reassure the continued support of the Ministry.

The highlight of the evening was the enlightening lecture on Chinese calligraphy delivered by Ms. Zhang Yaping, a revered teacher at CCCNIG. Her expertise and passion illuminated the rich history and profound symbolism embedded within each stroke of Chinese characters, captivating the audience and deepening their appreciation for this ancient art form.

Ms. Zhang Yaping a teacher at CCCNIG giving lecture on Chinese calligraphy (Photo by Mrs. Chen Huiling)

Following the lecture, guests were treated to a mesmerizing calligraphy exhibition by Ms. Qin Fangfang, another talented teacher at CCCNIG. Her graceful brushwork and exquisite compositions left a lasting impression, showcasing the timeless beauty of Chinese calligraphy.

Ms. Qin Fangfang a teacher at CCCNIG treated guest to a calligraphy exhibition (Photo by Mrs. Chen Huiling)

The event also provided attendees with an interactive experience, allowing them to engage with calligraphy experts and try their hand at this revered art form. This hands-on approach fostered a sense of cultural exchange and camaraderie, bridging the gap between the two nations through shared creativity and expression.

Interactive Experience with Calligraphy Experts (Photo by Mrs. Chen Huiling)

As the evening drew to a close, an award ceremony honored outstanding students, teachers and contributors to the promotion of cultural exchange between China and Nigeria. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Liu Zhanping, Deputy Director of CCCNIG, expressing gratitude to all participants and reaffirming the center's commitment to promoting cultural understanding and cooperation.

Award Ceremony honoring outstanding Students, Teachers and Contributors (Photo by Mrs. Chen Huiling)

In an exclusive interview session following the event, attendees expressed their admiration for the rich cultural tapestry woven throughout the evening. Many highlighted the importance of events like the Lanting Collection Calligraphy in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation.

By Mr. Shuaibu Ahmed Salim