#Brussels #Jiangsu #Belgium #Chinese culture

A Cultural Celebration: Chinese Heritage in Brussels

In Brussels, the vibrant essence of Chinese culture is captivating audiences as the exhibition "An Encounter with Chinese Culture: Jiangsu Week of the Grand Canal Culture" launched with much enthusiasm. This memorable event marks a significant celebration of cultural exchange to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union in 2025.

The opening ceremony was a fusion of creative performances that highlighted both the heritage of Jiangsu province and the artistic legacy of Belgium. Renowned artists from both nations collaborated to present a unique spectacle that blended Jiangsu's traditional Wuxi Opera with the surrealism characteristic of Belgian art.

During the ceremony, guests were treated to a stunning sand sculpture by He Liping, measuring approximately eight meters long, which represented key elements of both cultures. On one side, the enchanting charm of Bruges was depicted, featuring vibrant red kites, blooming poppies, the beloved Smurfs near the Atomium, and the renowned character Tintin in front of the Brussels Grand Place. Contrasting this, the canal culture of Jiangsu was illustrated with imagery of Changzhou and Wuxi, showcasing captivating elements such as giant pandas and cherry blossoms adorning ancient bridges.

Cao Weiping, a Changzhou artist who specializes in traditional tea snacks, participated in the opening and taught attendees about the art of creating these delicate delicacies. "Tea snacks date back to the Tang dynasty (618-907), a time when tea drinking became popular among scholars and the general populace, leading to the creation of these snacks. It is fair to say that our tea snacks boast a history of more than 1,400 years, crafted to reflect seasonal fruits in intricate forms," she explained.

Among the attendees was Spanish violinist Marina Martin, who shared her enthusiasm for the exhibition while discovering various Chinese musical instruments, including the erhu. "I was overwhelmed when I first heard the violin concerto 'The Butterfly Lovers.' This kind of musical collaboration transcends cultural barriers and allows diverse peoples to appreciate each other's arts positively," she reflected, reminiscing about her past visits to China.

The event not only emphasizes Jiangsu's rich canal culture but also introduces Belgian residents and visitors to the integral aspects of Chinese traditions that continue to flourish. The mingling of historic art forms serves to bridge understandings between Western and Eastern cultures.

The joint effort by China’s mission to the EU, Jiangsu’s provincial government, and the Jiangsu International Cultural Association signals a commitment to fostering deeper cultural ties and mutual appreciation through shared arts and customs. As the days of the exhibition unfold, it's anticipated that more cultural activities will continue to enliven and engage a diverse audience.

In today’s interconnected world, events such as these illuminate the importance of cultural heritage and the ways in which communities can connect through the appreciation of art and tradition. The Jiangsu Week of the Grand Canal Culture in Brussels is not merely an exhibition; it is a celebration of unity through diversity, offering a platform for deeper dialogue and understanding in a globalized society.