On the afternoon of December 31, 2024, the Hangzhou Buddhist Academy and Dongguk University of South Korea jointly held the second art exchange titled “Shared Origin of Buddhist Teachings” and the 2024 graduation exhibition of the Hangzhou Buddhist Academy at the Zhizhi Hall of Lingyin Temple. The opening ceremony was attended by Venerable Master Guangquan (President of Zhejiang Buddhist Association, President of Hangzhou Buddhist Academy), Venerable Master Don Gwan (Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dongguk University), Mr. Yun Jae-woong (President of Dongguk University), along with over a hundred faculty and students from both institutions.
In his speech, President Yun Jae-woong emphasized that Buddhist art showcases the charm of national art through its originality and universality, and this exhibition fully reflects these values and virtues. He looks forward to further deepening the exchanges between the two schools and hopes that the exhibition will promote the dissemination and inheritance of Buddhist art, paving the way for a bright future of interaction with the public.
Venerable Master Don Gwan also remarked that holding the second art exchange exhibition at Lingyin Temple is of profound significance, as the harmony of Buddhist teachings and the natural landscape adds unique value to the exhibition. He praised the efforts of Hangzhou Buddhist Academy and Dongguk University in preserving Buddhist culture and art and encouraged scholars from both institutions to promote the continuous development of Buddhist art in the spirit of “Shared Origin of Buddhist Teachings.” He urged everyone to diligently practice Buddhism with a Buddhist heart, integrating the teachings of the Buddha into their artistic creations, and to illuminate the world with the light of virtue.
Venerable Master Guangquan stated in his address that this art exchange exhibition not only continues the profound ties of Buddhist education between China and South Korea but also represents an important manifestation of cooperation in Buddhist culture and art between the two schools. It showcases the charm and innovation of Buddhist art transcending national boundaries. Venerable Master Guangquan expressed hope that the two institutions will continue to deepen their collaboration in the future, promoting the integration and innovation of Buddhist education and cultural arts, contributing to social harmony and the development of the Buddhist cause.
The opening ceremony was hosted by Master Mingzhen, the Vice Dean of Hangzhou Buddhist Academy. The exhibition features over 100 art works, including traditional Buddhist paintings and modern Buddhist art from both countries, and will run until January 20, 2025.
