On December 12th, the opening ceremony of the “Photographic Art Exhibition of Florence-Beijing: World Heritage and Customs" was grandly held at the School of Arts, Renmin University of China. Attending the ceremony were Zhang Donggang, Chair of the University Council of RUC, Riccardo Bussi, President of the International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP), renowned world heritage photography expert and photographer Zhou Meisheng, Zeng Yi, Chief Representative of FIAP in China as well as other guests and 21 international photographers from 17 countries including the UK and Australia. Representatives from the School of Arts also participated. The ceremony was presided over by Zhang Chun, Dean of the School of Arts.
Zhang Donggang, warmly welcomed the international photography masters. He stated that RUC has always been committed to promoting cultural exchanges between China and other countries, especially with Italy. This exhibition, focusing on the world heritage of Florence and Beijing, showcases the charm of these two cultural cities through the lenses of photography masters. It is a visual feast transcending borders and a cultural feast connecting hearts. The university is willing to continue hosting such cultural exchange events to enhance mutual understanding, seek wisdom and nourishment from different civilizations, promote the common values of all humanity and build a harmonious world.
Riccardo Bussi expressed gratitude for the university's preparation. He noted that Beijing and Florence, as representatives of Eastern and Western cultures, engage in a timeless dialogue through photography, showcasing the Renaissance heritage of Florence and the millennium tradition and innovation of Beijing. The exhibition demonstrates the deep respect and friendship between the two countries and connects the world heritage of these iconic cities.
Zhou Meisheng, shared his insights in world heritage photography. He emphasized that the rich world heritage of China and Italy provides significant elements for cultural exchanges. Photography, as a universal language that requires no translation, can inspire more attention and protection for world heritage.
Zeng Yi, stated that the exhibition fully reflects the long-standing history and friendship between the people of China and Italy. He hoped to strengthen cooperation with RUC and utilize the resources of FIAP to promote the development of photography education in China and enhance cultural exchanges.
Zhang Chun, Dean of the School of Arts at RUC, mentioned that the faculty and students are dedicated to promoting Chinese cultural heritage and telling Chinese cultural stories to the world. The exhibition helps people appreciate the importance of protecting cultural heritage and promoting cultural diversity. The school will build an art platform to jointly promote the exchange and mutual learning of Chinese and foreign civilizations and contribute wisdom and strength to building a community with a shared future for mankind.
Before the ceremony, students from the School of Arts of RUC performed a piece "Harmonic Inspiration" by Italian composer Vivaldi. In the afternoon, Riccardo Bussi gave a photography lecture, sharing his works and creative ideas. He also discussed the details of photography creation and the social responsibilities of photographers with the students.
The “Photographic Art Exhibition of Florence-Beijing: World Heritage and Customs" is jointly organized by the School of Arts at RUC and the China Office of FIAP. It will be on display in the art museum and the first-floor exhibition area of the school until December 19th. Featuring nearly a hundred masterpieces by photographers from China and abroad, the exhibition not only offers a visual feast but also a journey of exploring the cultural treasures and humanistic charm of these two historical cities. Each work is a deep gaze at history and a profound interpretation of culture, encouraging viewers to think about cultural heritage protection and contribute to world peace and development.
