FGS News
BLIA South Island NZ Training and Fellowship Seminar with Newly Appointed YAD President
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand April 1, 2024 On 16th March 2024, BLIA South Island held a Training and Fellowship Seminar at the Fo Guang Shan Christchurch Temple. The session featured insights from Minister in Charge of FGS Christchurch Venerable Juexi, Subchapter Senior Advisor CAO Qian, and Subchapter 1 President Tiffany SU. The session was attended by over 40 members, including Subchapter Senior Advisor Louisa KUO, BLIA South Island Deputy Presidents James LOW and Dong ZHANG and other committees. During the event, a charter ceremony was conducted for the newly appointed BLIA Young Adult Division Christchurch President Tim SONG and Deputy President Elaine HUANG. President Tiffany SU, quoted Venerable Master Hsing Yun, encouraged all participants to serve the community, thus forging positive connections. She emphasized that BLIA members strive to purify human minds, fostering compassion within society and making a meaningful historical impact through organising various activities. Senior Advisor CAO Qian shared her personal experiences to convey the essence of the BLIA and the attitudes that members should maintain. She stressed Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teachings for BLIA members to embrace virtues of unity and benevolence, and to actively engage in the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings in their daily lives to cultivate happiness and peace. Venerable Juexi highlighted the significance of essence, form, and function in practice. Venerable encouraged attendees to develop wisdom as the essence, compassion as the form, and skilful means for function, as one should return to the basics by cultivating the right understanding and right view from within. Venerable urged BLIA members to care for all beings and practice the principles of Truthfulness, Virtue, and Beauty inherent in Humanistic Buddhism at all times. The session also included vibrant and energetic singing by the YAD group. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the organizers’ dedication, gaining deeper insights into BLIA’s operations and feeling proud to be part of the community.
Harmonizing Tradition and Innovation: Workshop on AI Tools for Writing and Translation
Michael April 22, 2024 On April 9, 2024, Nan Tien Institute's Centre for Humanistic Buddhism hosted an online workshop focusing on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in writing and translation. The workshop featured Venerable Miao Guang, Deputy Chancellor of Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, who provided innovative translation ideas for volunteers engaged in translating articles for the journal "Studies on Humanistic Buddhism" (https://journal.nantien.edu.au). The event attracted volunteers from regions including the United States, Mainland China, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and Taiwan. Exploring the AI Landscape The session kicked off with Venerable Miao Guang providing a comprehensive overview of the currently available AI technologies. Through relevant examples, she showcased how these tools not only streamline workflows but also elevate the quality of creative output. The workshopstressed the importance of harnessing AI tools responsibly, with a focus on understanding their limitations. Mastering the Art of AI Interaction A highlight of the workshop was the deep dive into the art of crafting effective AI prompts. Venerable Miao Guang elucidated how well-designed prompts can enhance AI-generated output.Participants were treated to live demonstrations and interactive exercises, experiencing firsthand the impact of strategic prompting on AI's responses. This hands-on approach allowed attendees to grasp the nuanced interplay between AI Capabilities and human creativity. Venerable Miao Guang encouraged reflection on how AI tools can complement the creative process, urging participants to leverage their human insight and creativity to guide AI output. Inspiring Future Integration As the workshop wrapped up, participants emerged with enriched perspectives on the integration of AI in writing and translation. More than just an introduction to AI tools, the event served as a catalyst, inspiring attendees to explore innovative ways to incorporate technology into their creative workflows. The workshop underscored the potential of AI to serve as a powerful ally in the realm of writing and translation, provided it is guided by mindful and discerning human intervention. Venerable Miao Guang's session marked a significant step towards the harmonious fusion of technology and humanistic pursuits, paving the way for future explorations in the field.
BLIA South Island participated in Restore Forests and Protect Dryland Ecology
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand March 13, 2024 Adhering to the concept of Environmental and Spiritual Preservation, the BLIA South Island collaborated with the Christchurch City Council to hold the first T-EARTH Forest Community Project tree-planting event of the year on 2nd March 2024. The Presidents of Subchapter 1 Tiffany SU and Subchapter 2 Donald HE led more than ten members to Dry Bush, located on the outskirts of Christchurch, and joined with almost 30 locals who participated together to contribute to ecological restoration. BLIA North and South Islands members have been involved in the city’s tree planting and greening charity activities since 2008, carrying out conservation projects in the suburbs every year. The Park Ranger, Fiona Fenton explained that the activity site undergoes maintenance twice a year. The main task of the day is to remove wild grass. BLIA members traversed mountains and forests to reach the steep slopes and carry out the work. They cleared weeds to ensure previously planted saplings could receive enough sunlight and nutrients to thrive. Fiona highlighted that the reforestation of Dry Bush is crucial for the local ecosystem. It is beneficial for saplings to grow and contributes to the green ecology of the mountains by reintroducing native vegetation. She expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic participation of the BLIA members. One of the members of the English Dharma Service, Deirdre Johns, shared her joy in participating in forestry activities, contributing to the green ecology and providing more habitats for birds. BLIA member Mandy shared that the event was meaningful. Despite physical tiredness, her heart was filled with joy through the connection with nature and enhanced awareness of the importance of environmental protection.
An exclusive interview: Ven Abbess Manshin
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand April 3, 2024 The Venerable Abbess Manshin doesn’t give interviews. ‘Success isn’t about individual accomplishment but the collective power of the community. I haven’t given one in 20 years,’ the quintessential leitmotif of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple in New Zealand, told FARIDA MASTER. A rare interview with the game-changer who has transformed the cultural landscape of east Auckland. The Abbess embodies an alchemy of fiery dynamism, quiet strength, and an aura of utmost calm as she has worked relentlessly with communities, schools, youth groups, artists, and the police alike, to make the Temple an epicentre of vibrant cultural activity. An influential networker, the Abbess of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temples both in Auckland and Christchurch has taken on some huge challenges in her stride. She clearly defies the stereotypical description of a monastic leading a sterile life. From the outside most people would imagine that the Abbess has an army of volunteers to organise a series of multicultural events, attended by nearly 20,000 people. Yet, when you have a peek behind-the-scenes, there is just a small group of monastic and volunteers, working day and night to make things happen with precision, élan and dignity. Ven Abbess blesses a child at the Buddha’s Birthday Baby Blessing ceremony. Anyone who has attended the Chinese New Year Celebrations or the Buddha’s Birthday Celebration or the annual art exhibition at the Fo Guang Yuan art gallery, will know that everyone from the city’s most influential to the regulars, swarm the portals of the Temple – a study in architecture. “Buddhism is not exclusive,” she explains about her unblinkered pursuit of connecting with communities. “Since Gautama Buddha’s time, Buddha reached out to people as he went out to the community to collect alms. We at Fo Guang Shan hope to bring people together to develop their own potential and generate a positive attitude.” Talking for the first time about her personal tryst with Humanistic Buddhism, she says she felt drawn to it, in her early teens. “I WASN’T BORN IN A BUDDHIST FAMILY” “At the age of 14, I read about Buddhism being action-oriented. It’s about being a doer. I wanted to know whose teaching it was and started reading up,” she says about her calling to be a monastic. Soon after a three-year degree in the Fo Guang Shan Tsung Lin Buddhist University which involved a lot of study, hard work, and discipline to become a monastic, she was stationed in Queensland to oversee the building of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple. Whilst the young monastic was serving in Australia, she was summoned to Auckland by the Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Founder of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order. He wanted the capable monastic who had shown sparks of dynamism to manage the building of the Fo Guang Shan Temple in Flat Bush that was facing several hurdles. The work had come to a standstill and the Master was deeply concerned about the slow progress coupled with financial barriers that the Temple was confronted with. “Though I had no idea how I could make it happen, I assured the Master that I would accomplish the task if he gave me some time. I requested for permission to return to Australia before I took on the challenge of translating his vision into a reality,” she recalls. While the Abbess pulled out all stops to raise funds for the completion of the Temple, the next challenge was to foster a deep sense of community in the suburb with a multicultural glow. Never losing her sangfroid when the going got tough, the monastic elucidates on the power of resilience. She firmly believes that the world belongs to those who serve communities despite the speed-breakers. “HARDSHIP IS A WONDERFUL TEACHER.” “It’s only when you come across a difficult situation, that you work towards a solution and discover the immense reservoir of strength and determination you have within. There should be no pampering. It makes people weak. Those who can take hardship have a bright future. They can take on a mission and ensure it is completed.” The final completion of the Temple at Stancombe Road was a magnificent mission accomplished…despite the tears and turmoil involved. But she’d rather not discuss it. Instead, we talk about the Buddhist Temple becoming a haven for local schools. Children from around 55 local schools visit the tranquil portals of the beautifully designed Temple in Auckland and Christchurch. It is here they learn about the value of 3G: Do Good Deeds, Say Good Words and Think Good Thoughts; and 4G: Giving Confidence, Joy, Hope and Convenience to others. “SLOGANS WE MOUTH MUST TURN TO ACTION.” “It’s important for humanity to have more strength and energy,” she says about nourishing young minds with a sense of goodness. “A lot of times children teach their parents good values. We enable them to inculcate a positive attitude during times of trouble and help transform themselves. We also make them take a vow about cleaning their room and listening to their parents.” Instilling a sense of goodness in young minds has been a rewarding experience. The Abbess was particularly touched when Principal Heath McNeil of Ormiston Primary School mentioned that he was grateful for the relationship they’d built with the students over the years. McNeil felt reassured that the young students had someone to turn to during difficult times. “Where else can they ask for help? As our children move on to intermediate school or junior college they could face more challenges and we are not always there to protect them. But they can come to the Temple for help.” International students in the area, trying to find their feet in a new country also rely on the Temple for support. They find a sense of belonging and are appreciative of the generous lunch boxes with yummy vegetarian fare, thoughtfully packed for them by the Temple team to take home. There is enough food to share with their flatmates. It was a huge blessing for some during Covid times. “People who walk into the Temple or pray feel a sense of peace and tranquillity. They get charged with energy,” says the Abbess. The Police vouch for it too. Unbeknown to most, the NZ Police have held several conferences in the serene precincts of the landmark Temple. The Temple shares a close working relationship with the law-keepers of the nation. The Abbess was chosen by former police commissioner Howard Broad to be an honorary Patron of Wing 261 to a batch of 38 constables “as she brought a unique dimension to their training,” he said of the dedicated Buddhist monastic who also organised a Crime Prevention Expo in South Auckland, and produced a handbook for new police recruits. “WE MUST NURTURE AND SUPPORT THE GUARDIANS OF LAW WHO LOOK AFTER US.” “They need looking after too,” the Abbess concedes. As if on cue, Sr Sergeant Richard Bracey walks into the Temple with a couple of constables for a quick chat. He shares saying, “After a chaotic and stressful meeting, one feels relieved and at peace just walking through the Temple grounds.” The Temple and police have worked together on several occasions. During Covid when local schools ran short of Rapid Antigen Test, (RAT), the Abbess took it upon herself to help by asking the Temple headquarters in Taiwan for 15,000 free RAT kits to be sent to Auckland. “They were surprised to hear that New Zealand which was said to be the safest country in the world at the time, required them. Within hours, 97 schools registered saying they would require them. “I was sitting at my computer for four days at a stretch answering queries from school principals till late at night. “Under the leadership of Former Counties Manukau East Area Commander Inspector Scott Gemmell, Inspector Colin Higson and Senior Sergeant Anson Lin, the police team provided unstinted support for the distribution of supplies to schools. It was an unprecedented ‘111 delivery’ of these precious RAT kits to schools with the Temple team,” she says. The mutually respectful relationship is a textbook example of working in unison for communities. Another time, Former Area Commander Inspector Gemmell proposed a space of quiet reflection for his colleagues at the Ormiston Police Station. Considering the police officers have enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the beautiful Temple gardens that allows them to recharge, he asked for assistance in designing a spiritually uplifting space for the front-line police officers. Without much ado, the Abbess, and a team of 10 reached the station. They designed and constructed a five-meter-long wooden bench, plants from the Temple’s garden were replanted, stones were laid out and a stone light— symbolising a different land, but sharing the same skies was delivered to the Police Station. “It was to bless and brighten up everyone’s hearts,” she ends.
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Nan Tien Institute Participates in the "Attention Ecology" International Conference to Promote World Peace
Francis Wong February 23, 2024 Venerable Jue Wei, Director of the Humanistic Buddhism Center at Nan Tien Institute of Fo Guang Shan, attended the online workshop "Toward a systemic concept of attention for the attention economy, using Buddhist and Western ethics" on 7 February, at the invitation of the Eindhoven Centre for the Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence in the Netherlands. She delivered a keynote speech and explored the theme of "Ethics & Attention," along with other renowned experts, scholars, and institutional leaders. The workshop covered topics such as "Artificial Intelligence and Attention," "Economics, Business, and Attention," and "Law and Attention." Each presenter was given 15 minutes for their keynote speech, followed by an hour of online and offline open discussion. Venerable Jue Wei, drawing on Mahayana Buddhist principles, discussed how to transform the "Attention Economy" into an "Attention Ecology." She advocated for using "Attention Ecology" to enhance the concentration of the universe, removing the "Five Hindrances" that obstruct humanity's understanding of reality. He also explained the concept of "MettaVerses" to illustrate compassion and generosity across all realms, utilizing technology to benefit the public and foster the Bodhi mind. Venerable Jue Wei emphasized that Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes understanding of dependent origination, emptiness, impermanence, and non-self as fundamental insights into the nature of reality. The "Five Hindrances" of greed, anger, ignorance, arrogance, and doubt hinder the recognition of interdependence, emptiness, impermanence, and non-self, distorting perception of reality, clouding mental clarity, and reducing the ability to cultivate mindfulness, wisdom, and concentration, which are psychological factors or "energies" within the attention economy's emotional landscape. Focusing on the Bodhi mind in Mahayana Buddhism, Venerable Jue Wei underscored the cultivation of compassion and love, directing attention to the suffering of others, feeling compassion, and translating it into action. She proposed the concept of "MettaVerses," defining compassion as "selflessly serving and assisting with wisdom" and "giving charity unconditionally, without expecting anything in return," as shared by the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, with the public. During the Q&A session, participants demonstrated great interest in "MettaVerses" and Buddhist concepts, discussing mindfulness, "maintaining equanimity is the way," various Buddhist practices related to concentration, going with the flow, gradual enlightenment, and sudden enlightenment. Venerable Jue Wei believes that the current problems and crises in the world require collaboration across various fields, including religion, economics, law, ethics, and technology, to collectively create and transform crises, improve society, and promote world peace. She felt honoured to attend this presentation alongside some elite scholars and noted that Nan Tien Institute's curriculum references and cites these scholars' books as course materials, inspiring deeper and broader learning. Venerable Jue Wei recalls the teaching of Venerable Master Hsing Yun that the venerables of Fo Guang Shan should "step out to the world" and stand on the international stage to advocate for Buddhism, using Buddhism to change society and promote world peace. Conference Video to share: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJNnjP8zk9A
International Webinar Explores Chinese Perspectives on Human-AI Interaction
Pema Duddul April 24, 2024 On April 10, 2024, Venerable Dr Juewei , the Director of Nan Tien Institute’s Humanistic Buddhism Centre Australia, participated as a panelist in an international online seminar. The seminar, titled "The Interface between Human and Artificial Intelligence: Chinese Approaches in Global Context," was hosted by the China Forum for Civilizational Dialogue, co-organized by Georgetown University's Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs and La Civiltà Cattolica. The event aimed to foster a comprehensive dialogue on conceptual and practical frameworks for navigating the evolving relationship between humans and AI. At the heart of the discussion were key themes unearthed from a series of closed workshops held throughout the 2022-2023 academic year. These workshops, which attracted scholars, artists, and AI experts from diverse disciplines, underscored the imperative of reimagining accountability amidst the ongoing technological revolution and emphasized the necessity of fostering collaborative and co-creative partnerships between humans and AI. The event's diverse panel of speakers brought a wealth of expertise and perspectives to the table. Among them was Dr. Juewei Shi from Nan Tien Institute, whose unique background blends two decades of experience in Humanistic Buddhism and Buddhist Studies with a deep understanding of artificial intelligence and business process re-engineering. Dr. Shi's presentation shed light on the contemporary applications of Buddhism in navigating the complexities of human-AI interaction, offering valuable insights gleaned from both academia and real-world experience. Participants of "The Interface between Human and Artificial Intelligence: Chinese Approaches in Global Context" online seminar. photo／The Life News Agency Joining Dr. Shi were esteemed figures such as Thomas Banchoff, Director of Georgetown University's Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs; Qiufan Chen, an award-winning Chinese science-fiction writer renowned for his visionary contributions to the genre; Rev. Nuno Gonçalves, S.J., Director of La Civiltà Cattolica; Fen Jennifer Lin, an associate professor at City University of Hong Kong specializing in media, communication, and technology; and Debora Tonelli, the event coordinator and a prominent researcher in the field of religious studies. Throughout the webinar, participants engaged in lively discussions that traversed the philosophical, cultural, and ethical dimensions of AI-human interaction. From the implications of AI on religious and spiritual practices to the role of storytelling in shaping public perceptions of AI, the conversations were as varied as they were insightful. One of the central themes that emerged from the dialogue was the need for a more inclusive global discourse on AI that incorporates diverse perspectives from across the world. While the conversation around AI has predominantly been led by voices from the United States and Europe, the webinar highlighted the importance of amplifying voices from regions such as China, which bring their own rich philosophical and cultural traditions to the table. As the webinar drew to a close, participants were left with a renewed sense of urgency to continue exploring the complex terrain of AI-human interaction. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and embracing diverse perspectives, the webinar laid the groundwork for future endeavors aimed at navigating the evolving interface between humans and AI in an increasingly interconnected world. For those interested in delving deeper into the discussions and learning more about the speakers and their work, recordings of the webinar and additional information can be found on the China Forum for Civilizational Dialogue's website: https://chinaforum.georgetown.edu/events/the-interface-between-human-and-artificial-intelligence-chinese-approaches-in-global-context
FGS NZ Celebrates the Year of the Dragon with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon Extending New Year Greetings
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand February 16, 2024 On 9th February 2024, the eve of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Auckland hosted a celebration to welcome the Year of the Dragon. The event saw a turnout of over 8,000 attendees joining in the festivities to mark the beginning of a new year. The celebration was graced by the presence of New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The Prime Minister paid homage to the Founding Master of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, by offering flowers in appreciation of the Venerable Master establishing the Temple in New Zealand and the significant contributions to the wellbeing of the local community through various educational, artistic and cultural services. Distinguished guests including National Party MP Nancy LU, Chairman of the Howick Local Board, Damian Light, New Zealand Police Senior Sergeant Anson LIN and artist Richard Monk, also graced the event, extending their New Year wishes to the Chinese community in New Zealand. Venerable Abbess Manshin presented Spring Festival couplets to Prime Minister Luxon, May you be Free as Cloud and Water, Auspicious and Joyful, imparting wishes for peace and joy amidst his responsibilities. Prime Minister Luxon expressed his gratitude to Fo Guang Shan New Zealand for consistently organising the vibrant Lunar New Year event, marking his third year of participation. He committed to leading New Zealand towards a prosperous future with new strategies under his government. The event also featured heartfelt New Year greetings from MP Nancy LU and Chairperson Light. They expressed their joy in participating and wished the public family harmony and success in the Year of the Dragon. The New Zealand Police provide security services to ensure the smooth and safe progression of the festivities. The police officers also participate in the Fo Guang Lion Dance Performance, adding a unique flair to the celebrations and showcasing the cooperation between the police and the community. Senior Sergeant Anson LIN thanked the public for their support and stressed the importance of cooperation in ensuring community safety. The Fo Guang Shan Auckland meticulously prepared over ten thousand auspicious New Year red packets. These were distributed by Abbess Manshin, Prime Minister Luxon and Chairman Light, conveying the best wishes to the public. The enthusiastic participation of the public in the countdown and the New Year performances underscored the warmth and blessings extended by Fo Guang Shan Temple to the people of New Zealand. Prime Minister Luxon’s attendance highlighted the government’s support for the Chinese community and the broader message of New Zealand’s commitment to multiculturalism and inclusivity.
Jiangsu Province Buddhist Association from China Visited FGS Auckland NZ
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand March 28, 2024 On 16 March 2024, a delegation from the Jiangsu Province Buddhist Association, including Abbot of Nanjing’s Qixia Temple Venerable LongXiang, Abbot of Xuzhou’s Xinghua Chan Temple Venerable GuoGuang, Abbess of Rugao’s Fahua Temple Venerable ZhaoKong and the Academic Affairs Head of Jiangsu Buddhist College Venerable ZongZe, visited Fo Guang Shan Auckland. They were warmly received by Venerable Manshin, the Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in New Zealand. Abbess led the visitors to pay homage at the Main Shrine and to pay tribute to the Founding Master of FGS Buddhist Order Venerable Master Hsing Yun, with a flower offering. Abbess Manshin guided the guests through the facilities, explaining the community projects carried out in local society, based on the teaching of Venerable Master. Abbot LongXiang expressed gratitude to the Venerable Master for sharing kindness worldwide and benefiting the global citizens. He noted the significance of Buddhism serving the public and commended the BLIA members for their united and strong mission of bringing a joyful and positive attitude to the community. Abbot encouraged the members, acknowledging their fortune in continuing the spirit of Venerable Master’s teachings Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings in New Zealand. He appreciated the Team for their efforts, emphasising the need for increased cooperation and unity. Gifts were exchanged, including calligraphy, Pu’er tea and incense burners. FGS Auckland presented a book 366 Days with Wisdom written by the Founding Master in return.
FGS Auckland Expressed Gratitude to the Founding Master
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand March 11, 2024 On 24th February 2024, coinciding with the 15th day of the first lunar month, Fo Guang Shan Auckland commemorated the First Anniversary of Fo Guang Shan Founding Master—Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Passing Away. At 3pm NZ time, Abbess Manshin of Fo Guang Shan NZ led the monastic and BLIA members in joining a global live stream to pay tribute to the Venerable Master in a memorial service. The attendees included President Evelyn KU of BLIA North Island Chapter NZ, Deputy President Larry YANG, Nick YOONG and over fifty BLIA members. Head Abbot of FGS, the Most Venerable Hsin Bau expressed gratitude to the global Buddhist community for their unwavering commitment to protecting and promoting the faith. Abbot Hsin Bau explained that wisdom is the light of salvation for the world. The Founding Master hoped that everyone could find peace and happiness through faith. Abbot Hsin Bau blessed everyone to continue progressing and serving the community, drawing inspiration from the Founding Master’s spirit. Keeping Up is crucial, said Abbess Manshin, quoting the Founding Master to inspire the attendees. The opportunity to connect with the Founding Master is precious. By undertaking, enduring, striving and accomplishing in the service of the community, we enrich our lives with joy and value. President Evelyn expressed gratitude for the guidance of the Founding Master in understanding and strengthening faith, establishing correct views and beliefs. The Founding Master left countless writings to unlock our potential and gain wisdom. She encouraged the members to seize the moment and closely follow the Buddha’s teachings to enrich their lives. Advisor Lintao commented, that BLIA members are honored to uphold the Founding Master’s faith and legacy, which enhance our quality of life. Deputy President Larry reminisced emotionally about his time with the Venerable Master, During my volunteering at the headquarters, I had the precious opportunity to meet with the Venerable Master and was touched by his compassionate heart. I vow to cultivate the strength to bear responsibility, devote myself to the teachings and bring value to the community.
Live Demonstration of Ceramic Tile Painting in FGY Art Gallery Christchurch
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand April 2, 2024 The Resurgence Exhibition currently showcased at the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery Christchurch, has received high acclaim since its opening on 27th January, 2024. The main curator of the exhibition, ceramic artist Hugh Richard, conducted a live demonstration on 16th March, offering art enthusiasts a unique chance to observe his creative process up close. Hugh’s ceramic paintings are exquisite and lifelike. In the demonstration, he shared his painting technique, using a photograph of a seaside sunset as a reference. He cut a corner from a clay slab to use as a brush, skilfully sketching and outlining the landscape on the slab. He also invited attendees to participate in the creation process, fostering a delightful and interactive atmosphere. Throughout the demonstration, the audience was captivated by Hugh’s dedication and attention to detail. Hugh explained that after painting, the artworks are placed in a kiln for firing, a process that permanently fuses the pigments with the ceramic. The finished pieces are not only ideal for home decoration but also serve as unique gifts. Artist Tricia Morant was also present to show her support. The event offered art lovers a valuable and precious opportunity to engage directly with the artists and experience the joy of creation. Hugh shared that the quality behind each piece is the result of continuous hard work and dedication, and that focusing on painting is an enjoyable process. He expressed his gratitude to FGY Art Gallery Christchurch for providing the necessary resources and a beautiful venue to share the beauty of creation with the public.
