An exhibition featuring nearly 100 calligraphy works by local veteran artist Ung Si Meng opened yesterday at The Parisian Macao in Cotai, marking the 70th anniversary of the Macau Artist Society (MAS) and celebrating the artist’s decades-long dedication to calligraphy and community service.
Co-organised by the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) and MAS, in conjunction with Sands China Ltd, “A Heart for Community and Motherland: Calligraphy by Ung Si Meng” runs until October 15 at the integrated resort’s Level 3 exhibition hall.
The exhibition presents works in seal, clerical and regular scripts across formats including hanging scrolls, fan leaf paintings, couplets and square-formatted pieces. The works focus on Chinese culture, classical poetry, self-cultivation and reflections on the artist’s charitable activities.
Born in Macau in 1934, Ung developed an interest in calligraphy at an early age and has studied the art for many decades, according to a statement by the integrated resort. His works have been exhibited in the Chinese mainland, Canada, Japan, and South Korea, the statement noted.
Addressing the opening ceremony, IC President Deland Leong Wai Man said that Ung’s artistic journey reflects the transmission of Chinese culture in Macau, pointing out that his calligraphy represents both artistic refinement and affection for his country.
Speaking to the Post before the ceremony, Ung said he was “very happy” to have his work displayed as part of the Macau Artist Society’s 70th anniversary celebrations, noting that he has been involved in the arts for more than 70 years. “It is a great honour for me to hold this exhibition at the 70th anniversary of Macau Art Association,” he noted.
Ung said he hoped visitors would look beyond the calligraphic techniques and pay attention to the content of the works, which he said focuses on patriotism, as well as describing calligraphy as a foundation of Chinese culture. He also said that art requires extensive time, thought and reflection. “We hope that through calligraphy, we can improve our cultural confidence,” he said.
With free admission, the exhibition is open daily from noon to 7:00 p.m.
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Local artist Ung Si Meng speaks to the media during yesterday’s “A Heart for Community and Motherland: Calligraphy by Ung Si Meng” opening ceremony at The Parisian Macao in Cotai. – Photo: Khalel Vallo
