Calligraphy and art lovers can admire a raft of works displayed at Albergue SCM for the “Success with Horse - Works by Choi Chun Heng and his Treasured Collections” exhibition.
On until April 16, the exhibition kicked off last week during CAC – Círculo dos Amigos da Cultura de Macau (Circle of the Friends of Macau’s Culture) and Albergue SCM’s* “Celebration of the Chinese New Year of the Horse” party in commemoration of the Lantern Festival, with the opening witnessed by practitioners, enthusiasts and those curious about the art of calligraphy.
Choi himself was at last week’s event to introduce the pieces on display, as well as create festive “fai chun” (揮春), which are red banners or couplets with auspicious phrases in calligraphy, on-site to convey blessings, proving popular with many queuing up to receive the works.
Visiting gallerygoers, whether they are calligraphy lovers and practitioners or are just getting acquainted with the medium for the first time, can find the works displayed in two galleries within the venue, with both showcasing a collection of Choi’s calligraphy work along with his rare calligraphic treasures. Among the exhibition’s aims is to showcase this traditional artform to members of the public and enhance appreciation.
Describing Choi’s works, a recent statement by the CAC noted: “Master Choi Chun Heng’s calligraphy captures the spirit and rhythm of Chinese characters, bringing forth their timeless beauty and cultural essence”.
Choi, according to information displayed at the venue, is the chairman of the Tai Fung Tong Art House, which partners with organisers to present the exhibition. He is also a calligraphy instructor at local universities, schools and associations. Among his accolades are being champion of “The 6th Collective Exhibition in Macau” in Calligraphy in 1989, while he has showcased works in calligraphy solo and art collection exhibitions held in the Chinese mainland, Macau, Hong Kong and China’s Taiwan region, as well as Europe and the US.
The statement said that Choi, who also has a strong interest in music and art collection, has also hosted television shows including those on calligraphy.
Choi’s exhibition at the free-admission venue is open daily, with one able to visit from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Mondays, and from noon through 7 p.m. from Tuesday to Sunday. One can find more details by visiting https://www.facebook.com/CACMacau/.
*Albergue is Portuguese for “hospice”. SCM stands for Santa Casa da Misericórdia (“Holy House of Mercy”), Macau’s oldest charitable organisation. - MPD
Calligraphy master Choi Chun Heng creates a “fai chun” during last week’s Lantern Festival party at Albergue SCM. The Chinese term “fai chun” (揮春) refers to couplets traditionally hung during the Chinese New Year celebrations. Etymologically, “fai chun” means “waving (or presenting) spring,” reflecting the festive and celebratory nature of the couplets, which typically express good wishes and prosperity for the upcoming year. – Photos: Rui Pastorin
