WRITER: ASSUMPTION UNIVERSITY OF THAILAND
A beautiful expression of Eastern aesthetics came to life as Assumption University of Thailand (AU) recently hosted a three-day workshop on Gongbi bird-and-flower painting, led by Professor Zhang Li of Nanjing University of Industry Technology. The workshop took place at the Suvarnabhumi Campus and welcomed faculty and students from the Albert Laurence School of Communication Arts, offering them a hands-on journey into one of China’s most refined artistic traditions.
Art, Ink, and Precision : A Window into the Song Dynasty
Professor Zhang, an acclaimed Gongbi artist, transformed the venue into a traditional Chinese painting studio. Drawing inspiration from Song Dynasty miniature paintings, the workshop emphasized detail, harmony, and storytelling—hallmarks of Gongbi, or meticulous-style painting.
With plain xuan paper as her canvas, Professor Zhang demonstrated core techniques such as outlining and layering, patiently guiding participants through “three alum applications and nine layers of dye.” The atmosphere was contemplative yet electric, with Thai students and lecturers leaning in to observe the delicate movements of brush and ink.
“This immersive, hands-on approach allowed us to deeply appreciate the Chinese pursuit of detail and calm beauty,” said one Thai faculty member. “It wasn’t just a painting class—it was a cultural experience.”
From Plum Blossoms to Painted Bonds
The workshop went beyond technical skills to highlight cultural meaning. Professor Zhang introduced traditional Chinese symbols—plum blossoms, orchids, bamboo, chrysanthemums, birds, and insects—explaining their artistic, seasonal, and spiritual significance.
“I had no idea that a single flower or bird could carry so much Chinese wisdom,” one Thai student shared during the session. Encouraged by Professor Zhang, participants painted their own works, experiencing firsthand the Gongbi philosophy: “one brushstroke, one world.”
A Brushstroke of Diplomacy
Held amid ongoing Sino-Thai cooperation and the spirit of the Belt and Road Initiative, the workshop served as a creative platform for people-to-people exchange. It reflected AU’s commitment to cultural dialogue and international collaboration.
By introducing the soul of traditional Chinese ink painting to Thai participants, the workshop strengthened mutual understanding, enriched the educational experience, and brought new color to the tapestry of Thai–Chinese friendship.
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