An innovative cultural exhibition in Suzhou has drawn international acclaim for its creative fusion of Eastern and Western horticultural traditions. At the Second Chinese Museum Studies Conference, Patricia Rodewald, Distinguished Professor at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, highlighted the groundbreaking display connecting Suzhou's UNESCO-listed Humble Administrator's Garden with Monet's iconic garden in Giverny, France.
Bridging Civilizations Through Nature
The exhibition, described by Rodewald as "a dialogue across time and continents," juxtaposed the Ming Dynasty garden's scholar rocks and lotus ponds with Impressionist-inspired floral arrangements. This unique approach allowed visitors to experience how both cultures use nature as a canvas for philosophical expression.
Cultural Diplomacy in Bloom
Rodewald emphasized the project's significance in fostering international understanding: "These gardens represent more than aesthetics – they're living archives of human interaction with nature. By linking Suzhou and Giverny, we create new pathways for cross-cultural appreciation." The exhibition attracted over 200,000 visitors during its six-month run, including horticultural experts and history enthusiasts from 38 countries.
