Calling all students at the University of Edinburgh: Join us on Wednesday, 26th June, from 2-4.30 pm, to switch off and enjoy a mindful workshop in Taichi. This will be followed by a session in calligraphy, with optional kite decorating/flying.
We are delighted to collaborate with the University Wellbeing service to deliver this wellbeing session for students at the University of Edinburgh.
Spaces are limited; book your spot HERE.
On Monday, 10th June, from 12.00-2 pm, the Confucius Institute for Scotland team will be ready to welcome you to Abden House, where in a short visit, you will be able to participate in a Tai Chi session in the Abden House garden (weather permitting) and then followed by a talk on Chinese poets and Xie Lingyun comparing their work with Scottish poet, Robert Burns.
Traditional sticky dumplings 粽子 (zongzi) will be served
Event details:
Date & Time: Monday, 10th June,
Location: Abden House, 1 Marchhall Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 5HP.
Free entry, all welcome!
Please reserve your place HERE
We are delighted to share that our 10-week Chinese language taster session for UoE staff starts on 29th May.
This FREE lunchtime taster course will run once a week, an hour each session for ten weeks.
This course is an introductory session for learners without prior knowledge of the Chinese language. It is designed for those who want a short, focused introduction to Chinese language learning. It takes learners through basic expressions needed in typical conversational situations. Pronunciation and communicative practice will be the focus of this course. By the end of the course, students will have started to tune in to the sounds and tones of the Chinese language and learn some basic phrases used for social interaction.
Key Information:
Date & Time:
Block 1: Wednesdays from 29th May – 26th June, 12.15 – 13.15
Block 2: Wednesdays from 3rd July – 31st July, 12.15-13.15
Location: 50 George Square
A maximum capacity of 10 spaces has been set per group to optimise the learning experience – so space is very limited! Please reserve your space via People and Money HERE.
Please get in touch with xin.zhang@ed.ac.uk if you require any further information.
We are delighted to announce our five-week language course – the Chinese Conversational Elementary and Intermediate classes will start again on 29th May. These courses are for those who want to spend some dedicated time practising their Chinese oral and consolidating their conversation skills. It will help students with elementary and intermediate language levels develop well-balanced speaking and listening competence by learning and applying Chinese communicative skills in a specific professional or cultural context.
Conversational Chinese – Elementary level
Date: Wednesday, 29th May – 26th June
Time: 6pm-7.30pm
Duration: 5 weeks, 5 sessions (1.5 hour each session)
Class size: maximum of six students
Price: £50/£40
Location: Confucius Institute Campus, No. 79 Dalkeith Road, Edinburgh. EH16 5AL
Booking: Please reserve your place HERE
Conversational Chinese – Intermediate level
Date: Wednesday, 29th May – 26th June
Time: 6pm-7.30pm
Duration: 5 weeks, 5 sessions (1.5 hour each session)
Class size: maximum of six students
Price: £50/£40
Location: Confucius Institute Campus, No. 79 Dalkeith Road, Edinburgh. EH16 5AL
Booking: Please reserve your place HERE.
We are delighted to support Candice Lin’s first solo exhibition in Scotland. She brings together new and existing work to play with the University of Edinburgh’s former Natural History Museum as a site of corrupted encounters, transgressions and transformations. Queering human and animal relationships, Lin uses a vocabulary of crude, ambiguous and dreamlike imagery to expose the conceits surrounding the scientific categorisation and control of bodies, and its links to the construction of race, gender, animality and humanness.
The Animal Husband proffers perspectives that exist outside the realm of essentialising discussions about what human and non-human animals are. It offers an imaginative treatment of a range of troubling, dark and critical subjects that arise when different species of being are produced and perceived.
Location: Talbot Rice Gallery
Duration: 16 March – 1 June 2024
Visit the Talbot Rice Gallery website to find out more about the exhibition and the artist.
All photos by Sally Jubb, courtesy of Talbot Rice Gallery.
Adult content: Parts of this exhibition includes animated depictions and discussions of sexual interaction between humans and animals, and descriptions of sexual and racist violence. Not suitable for children.
Flashing images: The central video includes flashing images and a rotating screen.
Course: Outdoor Painting – Scottish Landscape
Date & Time: 10am – 3.30pm / Saturday 29 June 2024
Student level: This course is suitable for both beginners and advanced students. It
could be a follow- up course for students who attended Chinese landscape painting
class before. All practice materials will be refreshed from the previous class.
Class size: A minimum of five students are required to ensure the class goes ahead.
Location: This class will be delivered in person at Confucius Institute campus, 1 Marchhall Crescent Edinburgh EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
Landscape, Shan Shui, literally translated as ‘mountain and water’, is one of the most
popular subjects in Chinese brush painting. Chinese painting techniques are not
bound by Geographical limit; it can also interpret the Scottish landscape. This class
offers an opportunity to learn about and appreciate different cultural traditions
Taking inspiration from the wonderful view from Abden House, the main building of
Confucius Institute, this workshop will mix classroom-based exercises and outdoor
sketching and painting, weather permitted. Live demonstration will be provided during the class. The tutor will also provide
reassurance that the students can get the techniques into their own artwork
effectively. Participants are welcome to bring your own photo reference to paint on
the day.
What does it cover?
This course will mix with demonstration and critiques.
Not only is Chinese brush painting a beautiful art form, but it can also be a
meditative and relaxing practice that helps to reduce stress and increase focus. Join
our class and experience the joy and tranquillity that comes with creating your own
works of art.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor, featured in BBC
documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape
Artist of the year 2015’, whose work has been projected across Edinburgh castle
during the 2015 Military Tattoo. For more information and to see Chi’s work please
visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£40
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience a maximum capacity has been set per group –
so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please
use the University’s ePay system. One to one tutorials and small group workshops
can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
Date & Time: Thursdays 6, 13, 20 June 2024 / 10.00am – 12.30pm
Student level:
This course is suitable for both beginners and advanced students. It could be a
following up course for students who attended the Chinese birds & flowers painting
class before. All practice materials will be refreshed from the previous class.
Location:
This class will be delivered in person at Confucius Institute campus, 1 Marchhall
Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
Birds and flower paintings were often used as decorative elements in pottery and appeared on screens and utensils. From the Tang dynasty around the 8th and 9th centuries in China until today, Birds and flower paintings are a special school of Chinese brush paintings and it is widely popular for centuries. This 3-week course will introduce the common techniques related to Chinese soft brushes and ink. Participants will have the option to select from a range of subjects demonstrated by the tutor, such as oriole, magpie, Chinese orchid etc.
What does it cover?
By controlling the special soft brush with a sharp point, Chinese brush painting is not
only a mental exercise, also a physical exercise that coordinates the mind and the
body. Join this course to learn brush handling techniques and paint tigers.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor, featured in BBC
documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape
Artist of the year 2015’, whose work has been projected across Edinburgh castle
during the 2015 Military Tattoo. For more information and to see Chi’s work please
visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£60
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience a maximum capacity has been set per group –
so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please
use the University’s ePay system. One to one tutorials and small group workshops
can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
Course: Chinese Fan Painting Workshop
Date & Time: 10am – 3.30pm / Saturday 1 June 2024
Student level: Our expert instructors will guide you every step of the way, whether you’re a beginner
or an experienced artist.
Location: This class will be delivered in person at Confucius Institute campus, 1 Marchhall Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
In this workshop, you’ll learn the techniques of Chinese brush painting as you create
a beautiful floral design on a fan. Using ink, rice paper, and a Chinese brush, you’ll
learn to paint petals, leaves, stems, and other details that will bring your flowers to
life.
What does it cover?
Discover the beauty of Chinese brush painting and express your creativity in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. We will guide you through the steps to create your own hand-painted fan. You’ll leave the workshop with a stunning work of art that you can display or use to keep cool on a hot day.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor, featured in BBC
documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape
Artist of the year 2015’, whose work has been projected across Edinburgh castle
during the 2015 Military Tattoo. For more information and to see Chi’s work please
visit http://www.chizhangartist.com. Please contact the tutor if you need any further
information or advice prior registration.
How much does it cost?
£40
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience a maximum capacity has been set per group –
so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please
use the University’s ePay system. One to one tutorials and small group workshops
can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
Date & Time: Thursdays 18, 25 April, 2, 9, 16 May 2024 / 10.00am – 12.30pm
Student level:Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our classes are designed to
meet your needs and help you develop your skills at your own pace. All practice
materials will be refreshed from the previous class.
Location:
This class will be delivered in person at Confucius Institute campus, 1 Marchhall,Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
The unique Chinese landscape painting developed more than a thousand years ago, and brought to perfection by generations of master painters. Landscape, Shan Shui, literally translated as ‘mountain and water’ typically involves the representation of natural elements, often with symbolic meanings.
What does it cover?
Here are some common subjects in Chinese landscape painting, including
mountains, water, trees, traditional Chinese architecture, and figures.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor, featured in BBC
documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape
Artist of the year 2015’, whose work has been projected across Edinburgh castle
during the 2015 Military Tattoo. For more information and to see Chi’s work please
visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£100
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience a maximum capacity has been set per group –
so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please
use the University’s ePay system. One to one tutorials and small group workshops
can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
We are pleased to continue supporting programmes running at The Hippodrome, Scotland’s number one ‘destination’ cinema and winner of Best Cinema Experience in Scotland 2019.
Chinese superstar Li Li-li fizzes with vitality in this wholesome drama about a young girl who learns that there is no “i” in “team”.
The legendary director Sun Yu (Daybreak, HippFest 2016) created this sporty narrative specifically for Li-li whose roles tended to characterise her as energetic, wholesome and desirable. Her athletic abilities are woven into the story of Lin Ying who arrives in Shanghai, full of beans and competitive spirit, eager to take up her training at a sports college. Temptations abound in the big city but luckily her stern, handsome tutor is on hand to make sure she stays on track.
Browse Hippfest 2024 Digital Brochure Here and Book Your Ticket Here.
A daily shuttle bus service to and from Linlithgow station is available. Please visit the Hippodrome Cinema website for details
Screening material courtesy of the China Film Archive
Following the successful holding of the 6th Conference on Chinese Teaching in Scotland (CTS) in 2023, the 7th CTS Conference in 2024 will be rooted in the academic research of Chinese Studies at the University of Edinburgh, with the Confucius Institute for Scotland as the base. The theme of the 7th Conference is to deliver an Advanced Summer School in International Chinese Language Teaching, aiming to provide high-end and substantial teacher training for elite educators. Through a cycle of research conferences and training summer schools on a rotating basis, this Advanced Summer School will establish an overseas premier training center in the UK, Europe, and worldwide.
The 2024 Advanced Summer School is based on the mature methodology of action research established in the UK. Experts from both domestic and international realms within the field of international Chinese language teaching are specially invited to conduct pedagogical practices and training on their respective leading research fields. The Summer School aims to provide comprehensive and valuable content to participants through advanced training. The enrollment targets for this training include teachers with years of teaching experience, postgraduate students (majoring in education, linguistics, modern language studies, or other related fields), and teachers seeking further training in international Chinese language teaching.
Key Principles:
Enrollment for the 2024 Advanced Summer School is now open for applications, and interested teachers and students are welcome to apply.
Programme Structure:
Location:
Confucius Institute for Scotland, Abden House, 1 Marchhall Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 5HP.
Applicant Qualifications:
Registration and Approval:
If you have any inquiries, please contact info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk
This year, our institute has paired up with a bilingual ceilidh caller and ceilidh band for the students and friends of our institute to enjoy the joy and breathless wonder of the traditional Scottish ceilidh as a celebration of the arrival of the Year of the Dragon.
We will provide live music, dancing space and interpreted dance directions – you just bring your joy and energy and prepare for the potential of feeling dizzy!
All Welcome! The price includes a welcome drink.
Book your ticket via Eventbrite HERE.
Date & Time: 10.00am – 12.30pm / Thursday, 29nd February 2024
Student level:
Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our classes are designed to meet your needs and help you develop your skills at your own pace.
Location:
This class will be delivered in person at Confucius Institute campus, Abden House, 1 Marchhall Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
Orchids hold profound cultural significance in various Asian traditions, particularly in China and Japan. Symbolizing beauty, refinement, and elegance, orchids are a popular subject in traditional Chinese brush painting.
What does it cover?
This painting course explores the cultural significance of orchids, teaching Chinese brush painting techniques for capturing their beauty. Embrace the therapeutic aspects of art, develop personal expression, and gain insights into the historical context of Chinese painting.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor, featured in BBC documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape Artist of the year 2015’, whose work has been projected across Edinburgh castle during the 2015 Military Tattoo. For more information and to see Chi’s work please visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£20
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience a maximum capacity has been set per group – so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please register by completing the Registration Form HERE. One to one tutorials and small group workshops can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
Date & Time: 10.00am – 12.30pm / Thursday, 22nd February 2024
Student level:
Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our classes are designed to meet your needs and help you develop your skills at your own pace.
Location:
This class will be delivered in person at Confucius Institute campus, Abden House, 1 Marchhall Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
Cranes are symbolic in Asian cultures, representing longevity, wisdom, and good fortune. Learn how to use Chinese brush techniques to create beautiful art that combines mind and body. Discover art’s calming and personal growth benefits while understanding the historical context behind Chinese art.
What does it cover?
The course extends into practical applications within the realm of Chinese art, offering a broader canvas for your creative horizons.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor, featured in BBC documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape Artist of the year 2015’, whose work has been projected across Edinburgh castle during the 2015 Military Tattoo. For more information and to see Chi’s work please visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£20
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience a maximum capacity has been set per group – so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please register by completing the Registration Form HERE. One to one tutorials and small group workshops can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
Date & Time: 10.00am – 12.30pm / Thursday, 8th February 2024
Student level:
Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our classes are designed to meet your needs and help you develop your skills at your own pace.
Location:
This class will be delivered in person at Confucius Institute campus, Abden House, 1 Marchhall Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
Chinese calligraphy is one of China’s earliest and most important visual art forms. Practising Chinese painting and calligraphy is a calm, relaxing, and meditative process which benefits our well-being and leads to longevity. By controlling the special soft brush with a sharp point, Chinese brush painting is a mental exercise and a physical exercise that coordinates the mind and the body.
What does it cover?
Celebrate the Chinese New Year by making your own ‘Fu’. Chinese calligraphy with
‘Fu’, which means ‘Good luck, good fortune’ is the special message for
Chinese New Year and all other festival occasions.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor, featured in BBC documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape Artist of the year 2015’, whose work has been projected across Edinburgh castle during the 2015 Military Tattoo. For more information and to see Chi’s work please visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£20
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience a maximum capacity has been set per group – so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please register by completing the Registration Form HERE. One to one tutorials and small group workshops can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
Date & Time: 10.00am – 12.30pm / Thursday 1st February 2024
Student level:
Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our classes are designed to meet your needs and help you develop your skills at your own pace.
Location:
This class will be delivered in person at Confucius Institute campus, Abden House, 1 Marchhall Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
In many Asian cultures, particularly in China and Korea, the tiger symbolizes power, strength, and courage. It is considered a powerful guardian against evil spirits. Chinese brush painting has a distinctive style characterized by flowing brushstrokes and an emphasis on capturing the essence of the subject. Learning this style can contribute to developing your own unique artistic expression.
What does it cover?
By controlling the special soft brush with a sharp point, Chinese brush painting is a mental exercise and a physical exercise that coordinates the mind and the body. Join this course to learn brush-handling techniques and paint tigers.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor, featured in BBC documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape Artist of the year 2015’, whose work has been projected across Edinburgh castle during the 2015 Military Tattoo. For more information and to see Chi’s work please visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£20
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience a maximum capacity has been set per group – so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please register by completing the Registration Form HERE. One to one tutorials and small group workshops can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
Course: Chinese Brush Painting Masterclass – Bamboo
Date & Time: Thursday 30th November/10.00am – 12.30pm
Student level: Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our classes are designed to meet your needs and help you develop your skills at your own pace.
Location: This class will be delivered in person at the Confucius Institute campus, 1 Marchhall Crescent Edinburgh EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
Bamboo has significant cultural importance in China and other East Asian countries, representing the good character of real gentlemen and nobles. The tradition of bamboo and orchid painting has been around for centuries, and some techniques have been used for over 1,000 years. Using Chinese soft brushes, ink and colours, you will be shown how to achieve beautiful paintings in the style of Chinese old masters.
What does it cover?
In this class, you will learn the fundamental techniques of Chinese brush painting, including the use of the brush, ink, and paper, as well as the basic strokes and styles of this art form. You will also explore the cultural and historical significance of Chinese brush painting and its influence on other art forms.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor featured in the BBC documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape Artist of the year 2015’, whose work was projected across Edinburgh castle during the 2015 Military Tattoo.
For more information and to see Chi’s work, please visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£20
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience, a maximum capacity has been set per group – so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please use the University’s ePay system. One-to-one tutorials and small group workshops can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
Course: Chinese Brush Painting Masterclass – Winter Landscape
Date & Time: Thursday 23rd November/10.00am – 12.30pm
Student level: Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our classes are designed to meet your needs and help you develop your skills at your own pace.
Location: This class will be delivered in person at the Confucius Institute campus, 1 Marchhall Crescent Edinburgh EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
The unique Chinese landscape painting developed more than a thousand years ago and was brought to perfection by generations of master painters.’ Landscape, Shan Shui, translated as ‘mountain and water’, is among the most popular subjects in Chinese brush painting. This class will introduce the history of Chinese landscape painting and the standard techniques related to Chinese soft brushes and ink.
What does it cover?
In this class, you will learn the fundamental techniques of Chinese brush painting, including the use of the brush, ink, and paper, as well as the basic strokes and styles of this art form. You will also explore the cultural and historical significance of Chinese brush painting and its influence on other art forms.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor featured in the BBC documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape Artist of the year 2015’, whose work was projected across Edinburgh castle during the 2015 Military Tattoo.
For more information and to see Chi’s work, please visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£20
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience, a maximum capacity has been set per group – so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please use the University’s ePay system. One-to-one tutorials and small group workshops can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
Course: Chinese Brush Painting Masterclass – Fish
Date & Time: Saturday 18th November 2023/ 10.30am – 1.00pm
Student level: Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our classes are designed to meet your needs and help you develop your skills at your own pace.
Location: This class will be delivered in person at the Confucius Institute campus, 1 Marchhall Crescent Edinburgh EH16 5HP.
Why should I take this course?
In Chinese culture, fish symbolizes wealth and prosperity. Koi fish, whether black or red, additionally represent affluence, triumph, and popularity. Through the use of Chinese soft brushes, ink, and colours, participants will be guided in achieving exquisite paintings in the style of ancient Chinese masters.
What does it cover?
In this class, you will learn the fundamental techniques of Chinese brush painting, including the use of the brush, ink, and paper, as well as the basic strokes and styles of this art form. You will also explore the cultural and historical significance of Chinese brush painting and its influence on other art forms.
About the teacher:
This course will be led by Chi Zhang – an experienced instructor featured in the BBC documentary ‘The art of Chinese brush painting’, shortlisted for ‘Sky TV Landscape Artist of the year 2015’, whose work was projected across Edinburgh castle during the 2015 Military Tattoo.
For more information and to see Chi’s work, please visit http://www.chizhangartist.com.
How much does it cost?
£20
Booking & Further information:
To optimise the learning experience, a maximum capacity has been set per group – so space is very limited! To secure one of the limited spaces on this course, please use the University’s ePay system. One-to-one tutorials and small group workshops can also be arranged. Please email info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk for more info.
