Canada: "Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance" International Art Exhibition Held in Oshawa, Ontario

The "Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance" International Art Exhibition was displayed in the Oshawa Town Centre in Ontario, Canada, on November 5th, 2007. Comprised of nearly 30 artworks by practitioners of Falun Gong, the exhibit featured oil canvases, traditional Chinese paintings, and sculptures through which the artists expressed the beauty of Falun Gong and exposed the persecution that practitioners have suffered in China.

Councillor Robert Lutczyk said, "I am very glad the organisers have brought this exhibit to Oshawa."

Councillor Maryanne Sholdra said, "Perhaps I should learn to meditate, and be as peaceful as this gentleman here."

People admiring the artworks

Learning the fifth Falun Gong exercise

Councillors Robert Lutczyk and Maryanne Sholdra were invited to attend the opening ceremony. Mr Robert Lutczyk said in his speech, "I am very glad the organisers have brought the exhibit to Oshawa, but it is unfortunate to see this kind of persecution taking place in China. I am aware that a Chinese delegation once visited Oshawa to build on our economic relations. However, until the human rights abuses in China are brought to an end, I feel we should not build this type of business relationship. It is unacceptable, even if we would obtain economic benefits."

Maryanne Sholdra expressed her agreement with Robert Lutzcyk's point of view. She said, "These artworks are so beautiful. Perhaps I should also learn to meditate and be as peaceful as this gentleman here," she said, pointing to the practitioner who was demonstrating the exercises. "My temper is not very good."

One of the artists, Kathleen Gillis, attended the opening ceremony and addressed the audience, "We hope to tell people about this persecution of Falun Gong in China through these artworks. We hope everyone will pay attention to and help stop the persecution."

Many people who attended the exhibit were impressed by the beauty of the artworks but distressed by the brutality of the persecution. "It's almost unbelievable," was one comment. After viewing the exhibit, some people started to learn the Falun Gong exercises.