On 10th November 2024, the Soaring through the Sky—Dunhuang Art Exhibition opening ceremony was held in Christchurch. It was organized by the Dunhuang Academy China, a comprehensive research institution responsible for managing the Mogao Caves in Gansu Province, China. The exhibition was jointly hosted by the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Christchurch and the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery Christchurch. Distinguished guests at the opening included Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Christchurch Madame HE Ying, Curator of FGY Art Gallery NZ Abbess Manshin, Christchurch City Councilor Victoria Henstock, Honorary Chairman of the New Zealand China Friendship Society, The Right Hon Sir David Carter, with nearly 200 guests present. The exhibition was also reported by China’s Xinhua News Agency and The Press, the largest English newspaper in NZ’s South Island.
After 20 days of intensive preparation, the Soaring through the Sky—Dunhuang Art Exhibition was launched at the FGY Art Gallery Christchurch as scheduled. The exhibition features 17 captivating works, including Tang Dynasty Bodhisattva sculptures from Mogao Caves No. 159 and No. 194, Northern Wei Buddha statues from Caves No. 260 and No. 259, Early Tang Bodhisattva murals from Cave No. 57, the Sui Dynasty’s Three Hares Flying in the Heavens mural from Cave No. 402 and the Middle Tang mural depicting the Celestial Rebound Pipa (Chinese lute) from Cave No. 112. In addition to the murals , the silk reproductions on the beams enhanced the peaceful atmosphere. This exhibition is considered one of the most significant displays of Chinese Dunhuang art in recent years in Christchurch.
Consul General HE Ying’s speech emphasized that the Dunhuang caves, with a history of over 1600 years, are well regarded as the world’s largest and longest preserved treasure trove of cave art. Culture serves as a bridge that transcends borders and connects hearts, she said. She expressed gratitude to the FGY Art Gallery team for providing such an elegant venue, which allowed Dunhuang’s cultural radiance to be vividly showcased, deepening the local community’s understanding of Chinese Art and enhancing the cultural exchanges between the two nations.
Curator Abbess Manshin noted that the FGY Art Gallery is a gift to Christchurch from Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the Founder of FGS Buddhist Order. The architecture of the Christchurch Temple is inspired by the Longmen Grottoes, embodying the Buddhist concept of emptiness, with a design that can be grand or humble, visible or invisible, light or heavy—symbolizing boundless potential and vitality. Abbess expressed special thanks to the Consulate General for bringing Dunhuang’s treasures to the Gallery, enabling both parties to showcase a magnificent chapter of Chinese history.
City Councilor Victoria Henstock shared her thoughts that she was honored to witness the beauty of Dunhuang’s treasures in Christchurch. While admiring the artwork, she reflected on the importance of preserving precious religious cultural heritage and the role art plays in fostering understanding and connection between people.
Chairman Sir David Carter remarked that as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Dunhuang caves attract numerous visitors annually, making preservation a significant challenge. He emphasized the importance of Dunhuang in facilitating exchanges between China and Europe and encouraged the public to visit Dunhuang if possible.
During the opening, the traditional piece Farewell at Yangguan Pass was performed by the musicians from the Beijing National Orchestra, specially invited by the Consulate General. The piece allowed attendees to experience the profoundness of Chinese history and the power of Buddhist art through music. The month-long exhibition aims to introduce the beauty of Chinese cave art to those who may not have the opportunity to travel to China, spreading the aesthetic of Buddhist art to a broader audience.
The Soaring Through the Sky DunHuang Art Exhibition is featuring until 8 December 2024. Welcome to enjoy the unique cultural experience of ancient DunHuang Art in New Zealand.