The Life News Agency
February 7, 2023

The Fo Guang Shan Monastery in the Philippines launched a month-long exhibition titled "In Remembrance of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Founder of Fo Guang Shan Monastery, Spring Couplets Painting Exhibition" at the renowned SM Department Store in Bacolod starting from February 1st. The exhibition, led by the Yuan Thong Temple's social education art teachers Edmund and Pneuma along with artist friends, attracted the attention of numerous passersby and students.

The exhibition venue was filled with the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, and visitors stopped to admire the ink paintings of the couplets. Students, in particular, brought their friends to take photos and explore more about the stories behind the spring couplets through QR codes.

The exhibition attracted the attention of numerous passersby and students. photo／The Life News Agency

Of particular note is the fact that local residents have begun to regard Fo Guang Shan Venerable Master Hsing Yun's Calligraphy Spring Couplets as a language of good luck, seeing them as symbols of auspiciousness. This cultural exchange has also led to greater recognition and understanding of Buddhist culture among the people.

To further enhance the atmosphere of the Spring Festival, lanterns of peace from Fo Guang Shan were hung at the exhibition venue, infusing the entire event with more tranquility.

The success of the event is inseparable from the full support of the leadership of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines and relevant individuals. The event received staunch support from the Head Abbess  Venerable Yong Guang, meticulous guidance from Venerable Chueh Lin, and numerous exquisite exhibits provided by Ven. Dao, curator of the Fo Guang Shan Manila Art Gallery.

The ink paintings of the couplets. photo／The Life News Agency

This exhibition not only brought about cultural exchange but also promoted cohesion within and beyond the community. It is hoped that such activities can continue to be held, allowing more people to gain deeper insights into Buddhist culture while experiencing joy and tranquility during the Lunar New Year Festival.