Dunhuang exhibition held at UN headquarters

UNITED NATIONS — The exhibition, Radiance of Dunhuang, which showcases Tsinghua University's research and design work and is inspired by the ancient art of Dunhuang in Gansu province, opened on Dec 8 at the United Nations headquarters in New York and wrapped up on Dec 12.

More than 80 works were on display, from early Dunhuang research masters, such as Pang Xunqin, Chang Sha'na, Chen Hanmin, and Liu Jude, to new pieces by Tsinghua students and alumni.

The first section displayed the achievements of Tsinghua scholars of Dunhuang from the 1940s to 80s, focusing on collecting, sorting patterns, and creative design. Their research and interpretations shed further light on the country's contemporary art education.

The second section collectively showcased the university's latest art explorations in Dunhuang art over the past two decades. It showed the research's depth and range, particularly when combined with up-to-date discourses.

Yu Yougen, an education counselor at the Chinese Consulate in New York, calls the exhibition "a cultural treasure shared by all humanity", highlighting China's academic strength in cultural heritage research.

Holding the exhibition at the United Nations helps promote cross-cultural understanding among young people, Yu says.

Wang Xiaomo, associate dean of Tsinghua University's Academy of Arts and Design, says the exhibition reflected the school's long-standing commitment to cultural inheritance and innovation, as well as newer work using AI, digital media, 3D printing, and virtual fashion.

"It's a valued topic, and it carries with it generations of Tsinghua scholars' memories and academic traditions, as well as our innovative spirit," Wang adds.

The exhibition was co-organized by Tsinghua University's Academy of Arts and Design, the UN Staff Recreation Council Chinese Book Club, and the North American Federation of Tsinghua Alumni Associations. It was the second stop on an international tour that began in Paris in October 2024.

The federation's Ren Gang says the exhibition also presented to the world young Chinese people's willingness and potential to promote exchanges and dialogues through art and creativity.