On June 18, the Only Gardens Chen Congzhou Academic Thoughts Exhibition debuted at the China Garden Museum in Beijing. Co-hosted by the museum and Tongji University, it's a significant showcase of Chen's profound contributions to garden studies.
Chen Congzhou, a modern Chinese gardening pioneer, was a master in garden theory, design, and education. The exhibition brings together his rare garden monographs, manuscripts, calligraphy, paintings, models, and expert interviews, offering a comprehensive look into his academic journey and achievements.
At the opening, leaders and experts, including those from Tongji University and the China Garden Museum, delivered speeches. They highlighted Chen's role in promoting Chinese garden culture and emphasized the importance of preserving and innovating traditional culture.
The exhibition is divided into four sections. Garden Philosophy delves into his theoretical insights, Garden Methods showcases his design techniques, Garden Realms displays his artistic expressions through calligraphy and painting, and Garden Emotions explores the cultural fusion in his works.
Notably, Tongji University's College of Architecture and Urban Planning created a digital film, A Floating Life in the Garden, which premieres here, adding a modern touch to the classic themes.
Chen Congzhou's legacy extends beyond theory. He designed and restored famous gardens like Shanghai's Yu Garden and Suzhou's Humble Administrator's Garden, and even introduced Chinese garden art to the world with the Ming Xuan Pavilion at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
This exhibition not only honors Chen's memory but also inspires future generations to continue exploring and preserving China's rich garden heritage.