On April 19, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia, Yunnan University of Finance and Economics (YUFE) and the Consulate General of Malaysia in Kunming co-hosted the “A Lifetime in a Few Strokes: The Vibrant Yunnan of Zhong Zhengshan” memorial event at the Zhong Zhengshan Art Museum, with support from Yunnan Media Group Lancang-Mekong International Satellite TV and Yunnan Hanwen Education Group.
The memorial event featured a special exhibition of Zhong Zhengshan’s works, the release of his book “A Lifetime in a Few Strokes”, a symposium on his artistic thoughts, and a symposium on his educational philosophy. Attendees included Mohamed Akma, Consul General of the Consulate General of Malaysia in Kunming; Wang Min, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and President of YUFE; Shi Zhongjun, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee of YUFE; Yan Ming, member of the Party Committee and Vice President of YUFE; Wu Yingli, member of the Party Committee and Director of the Organization Department of YUFE; Yu Yong, Director of the Office of External Cooperation and Exchange at YUFE; along with over 100 relatives, friends, colleagues, and students of Mr. Zhong Zhengshan.
In his speech, Mohamed Akma highlighted that Mr. Zhong Zhengshan is revered as the “Father of Modern Art Education in Malaysia”, noting his profound impact on modern art design education in both Malaysia and China. This event is part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of China-Malaysia diplomatic relations, showcasing the enduring cross-border diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Representing the university, Yan Ming warmly welcomed the distinguished guests. He recalled that on September 15, 2011, the Zhong Zhengshan Art Museum, donated by Mr. Zhong, was established at YUFE, housing his lifetime masterpieces and personal art collections. Over the past decade, the museum has become a vital platform for cultivating students’ artistic sensibilities and enhancing their aesthetic abilities through art exhibitions, lectures, and classes, serving as a base for aesthetics education, patriotism education, and cultural creativity. It has hosted over 20,000 visitors and more than 300 courses and lectures. “The precious artworks here reflect Mr. Zhong’s passion for art, dedication to education, and respect for culture. They are not only a valuable asset to our school but also a testament to the enduring friendship between China and Malaysia.”
Zhong Yu, Mr. Zhong’s eldest daughter and the art director of the Zhong Zhengshan Art Museum, reminisced about her father’s artistic journey and expressed her deep affection for him. “As Mr. Zhong's eldest daughter, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work alongside my father in promoting art education after completing my studies. His diverse artistic explorations across China enriched his creative work. Though his passing brings sadness and longing, continuing to uphold and promote his artistic and educational philosophies is the best way to honor his memory.”
Zhou Wenlin, a close friend of Mr. Zhong and former president of Yunnan Fine Arts Publishing House, donated his personal collection and works, sharing cherished memories of Mr. Zhong. Dr. Chen Zhiwei, a student representative, expressed deep admiration and remembrance for his mentor.
In the afternoon, the symposiums on Mr. Zhong’s artistic and educational philosophies saw experts and scholars from various fields deeply engage in discussions about his contributions. Zhong Yu, Zhong Lin, and Zhong Taiyuan, Mr. Zhong’s children, shared their understanding of his artistic concepts and how his educational principles influenced their lives. Kang Hailing, a researcher from the China National Academy of Arts, discussed Mr. Zhong’s significant contributions to the Maritime Silk Road and the global Chinese art community. Professors Yang Jiangbo from Yunnan Normal University, Luo Yifeng from Xi’an Conservatory of Music, Wu Kun from the Publicity Department of the CPC Yunnan Provincial Committee, Zhu Yubo, a retired cadre from the Cultural Industry Office of the CPC Yunnan Provincial Committee, Dai Zongpin from the Yunnan Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, and former vice presidents of the School of Modern Design Arts at YUFE, Nong Wei and Wu Bin, along with 2018 graduate Wang You, provided diverse perspectives on Mr. Zhong’s artistic thoughts.
At the symposium on educational philosophy, Huang Yanhong, former education director of the Malaysia International Modern Design Group, reminisced about the challenging times her father, Huang Guoqiang, and Mr. Zhong shared in establishing a joint art school. Former faculty and students from the International Modern Design Art Institute of Yunnan University also recalled their fond memories with Mr. Zhong.
In conclusion, Yuan Hong, Dean of the School of Media and Design Arts and Director of the Zhong Zhengshan Art Museum, emphasized that the museum carries the responsibility of researching and preserving Mr. Zhong’s artistic thoughts, while steadfastly promoting his educational philosophy. The museum aims to expand its platform for display and exchange, ensuring that Mr. Zhong’s cultural and educational legacy continues to shine brightly.
