“The Chinese Zodiac” exhibition
The Chinese zodiac is a significant icon of China’s culture, entailing traditional folk wisdom. The zodiac signs emerged from the traditional Chinese year numbering system based on a lunar calendar. They recur in a cycle of twelve years. Each year is represented by an animal that symbolizes a particular set of virtues: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.
The beauty of the Chinese zodiac lies in the harmony between humans and animals. A zodiac sign does not only record one’s birth year, it also becomes a lifetime mascot. The culture of the Chinese zodiac signs touches many aspects of society, enriching and bringing enjoyment to people’s lives.
This exhibition takes inspiration from traditional culture and deconstructs the Chinese zodiac from a contemporary perspective. On display here is a selection of the 100 zodiac-themed pieces of artwork in the exhibition. The artists used a range of art forms: painting, glass art, ceramics and more.
“The Chinese Zodiac” exhibition was one of the Chinese New Year’s exhibitions at the Center two years ago. Today, we bring back some zodiac art online for those who want to revisit the exhibition or missed it the first time!
