The Soaring Through the Sky: Dunhuang Cultural Exhibition was officially launched on 20th February at Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Auckland, hosted by the Dunhuang Academy and co-organised by the Chinese Consulate-General and the Chinese Cultural Centre in Auckland, presented by Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery Auckland. The opening was graced by Consul General CHEN Shijie, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, Curator Abbess Manshin of FGS NZ and FGY Art Gallery NZ, Director WANG Jianwen of the Chinese Cultural Centre, Executive Director Alistair Crozier of the NZ China Council, Vice Chairman Neville Cant of the NZ China Friendship Society and Auckland Councillors Maurice Williamson and Sharon Stewart. About 150 distinguished guests from various sectors participated in the opening, while Ann Fyfe and Lisa Ambridge, representatives from the NZ Prime Minister’s Office, visited the exhibition on 21st February.
Consul General CHEN Shijie thanked the Chinese Cultural Centre and FGS Auckland for their meticulous organisation and dedication to promoting Dunhuang culture. He highlighted Dunhuang art as a treasure of Chinese civilization and part of the world’s heritage. This exhibition acts as a cultural bridge, fostering appreciation between Eastern and Western civilisations while reflecting New Zealand’s cultural diversity and free trade values. The Consul General wished the exhibition success and hoped New Zealanders would explore the brilliance of China’s ancient civilization through Dunhuang art.
Curator Abbess Manshin sincerely thanked the organisers and co-organisers for supporting the exhibition. Abbess emphasised that Dunhuang art preserved 1,600 years of Chinese history, art, faith and daily life, representing a unique cultural legacy. The murals depict the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, disciples, celestial beings, patrons and guardian animals, symbolising the equal Buddha-nature in all. Quoting the Buddha, The mind, the Buddha and all beings are no different from one another, Abbess reminded audiences of their original nature and encouraged a pure, compassionate approach towards themselves and others.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown praised the Dunhuang Art Exhibition as a vital cultural exchange, showcasing the significance of Buddhism and Chinese art. He highlighted that such events enhance international dialogue and mutual understanding, which is crucial for global cultural growth. Mayor Brown also emphasized Auckland’s diversity, with over 200,000 Chinese residents, and hoped for ongoing learning between China and New Zealand to boost economic and cultural opportunities for Auckland and the nation.
Executive Director Alistair Crozier of the NZ China Council and Vice Chairman Neville Cant of the NZ China Friendship Society expressed gratitude to the organisers and everyone involved in bringing this remarkable cultural heritage to Auckland and encouraged visitors to immerse themselves in this extraordinary artistic and historical experience fully.
The one-month exhibition vividly brings Dunhuang to life through 30 murals, four sculptures and six miniature cave replicas. Through depictions of celestial beings, pipa musicians, majestic Buddha statues, and intricate Buddhist narrative paintings, visitors experience the beauty and history of Dunhuang art. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore the history, ignite inspiration, and cultivate purity in our hearts.