Canada: "Uncompromising Courage" Art Exhibition Held at York University

From October 12th-22nd, 2004, the art exhibition "Uncompromising Courage" is being held at York University in Toronto. The exhibition of 40 pieces by more than 20 artists was officially inaugurated on October 12th in both the Akasa and Eleanor Winters Galleries on the second floor of the Student Centre, where there is also a student lounge and food area. The exhibition was sponsored in part by the Falun Dafa Association of Canada and co-sponsored by the Friends of Falun Gong and the Association for Promoting "Truthfulness-Compassion-Tolerance."

Sculpture: "Cage"

Sculpture: "Death Posture"

Unveiling the sculpture:"Portrait of Lord Buddha"

Professor Zhang explains the "Death Posture" sculpture to the audience

Explaining the artworks and the true stories behind them to the audience

The exhibition is divided into four parts. Part I "Heaven and Humanity in Harmonious Unity" and Part II "Trials and Tribulations" are displayed in the Akasa Gallery. Parts III "Uncompromising Courage" and IV "The Righteous Will Definitely Triumph" are at the Eleanor Winters Gallery.

On the afternoon of October 12th, artist and professor Zhang Kunlun, along with participating artists Ms. Wang Weixing from the US and Catherine from Ottawa, unveiled the sculptures "Cage," "Death Posture" and "Portrait of Lord Buddha." Professor Zhang, having personally experienced torture inside China's labour camps, first explained the reasons for the exhibition and the joys and sorrows he had experienced in bringing it together. Professor Bruce Parsons, who teaches painting at York University, then spoke on the importance of the works and encouraged his students to learn about Falun Gong. He said, "This exhibition is very important. It can help students understand what is going on and is a very good opportunity for them to learn about Falun Gong." He was very pleased to have the opportunity to present these works to his students. When the other artists unveiled "Cage" and "Death Posture" in the Akasa Gallery, Professor Zhang was moved to tears when he saw "Death Posture." The artist is a good friend of the professor. The professor said that his friend is a kind-hearted person. When she learned that Falun Gong practitioners in China are subjected to such torture, she created this work. The audience gave the professor encouraging applause. Several media representatives also came to interview the artists.

The audience is moved by the art works and the true stories behind them

The second opening ceremony was held at the Eleanor Winters Gallery. The curator of this gallery was of immense help. From designing the show itself to transporting the art works and installing the paintings, she helped make the exhibition a magnificent one. One of the sponsors unveiled Professor Zhang's work "Portrait of Lord Buddha." When the yellow silk covering was removed from the sculpture, everyone present gasped in admiration. They walked up to take a closer look at the grandeur, benevolence and lifelike qualities achieved by this highly skilled craftsman. The professor explained that he used to be an atheist. The principles of Falun Dafa changed him. After having gone through so many experiences, he had to change his mind about not believing in God. So he used the language of sculpture to portray the most benevolent god he could imagine. His words brought a round of sincere applause. Visitors then had the opportunity to socialise and enjoy the refreshments. Many students came to visit the exhibition.

Teachers and students at York University in Toronto offered much encouragement and support for this art exhibition. York is a renowned university with a first class art department. One professor enthusiastically helped contact and arrange for Professor Zhang's impromptu painting session in the Art Department on October 13th. Professor Zhang painted three works that day, and he presented one of them to the Principal of York University in appreciation of the university's independence and broadmindedness.

Additional exhibition sponsors include: The York University Centre for Human Rights and Equity, Unified Communications, The Epoch Times, and New Tang Dynasty Television Canada. Their support contributed to the success of the exhibition. Appreciation is also due to student volunteers who helped receive the visitors.

The art exhibition has gained the support of many people and also attracted many visitors, making it a grand occasion. Moreover, the paintings and sculptures on display are superb, a combination of beauty and purity found nowhere else.

Thanks to all the artists, sponsors, museum and staff members for their efforts!