Western University's Department of Visual Arts Celebrates Liu Shiming with a Landmark Exhibition

Audiences at the exhibition.

On October 26, 2023, Western University's Department of Visual Arts unveiled the

exhibition "In the Heart of the Bronze: A Liu Shiming Retrospective" with the opening reception and panel discussion. The exhibition covers twenty-six bronze pieces to show Liu's observations on everyday people. Attendees experiences a wonderful review of Liu's tribute to the beauty found in daily life and folk traditions through the exhibition.

Ashar Mobeen and Liza Eurich at exibition reception.

Liza Eurich, the Director of the artLAB gallery, delivered the opening address for the evening. During her speech, she expressed deep gratitude and admiration for the efforts and goals of the Liu Shiming Art Foundation. She emphasized the importance of art in both life and education, highlighting how life is enriched by the presence of art, and education thrives when infused with its beauty. She also noted the significant privilege of Western University being the first Canadian institution to feature this art and engage in the partnership.

Kate Martha Murphy ( Liu Shiming Scholar 2023 ) at Western University.

The event was also marked by the announcement of the Liu Shiming Scholarship's latest recipient, Kate Martha Murphy, who is currently in her second year studying Studio Arts at Western University.

Panel discussion at Western University, October 26, 2023.

Further enriching the evening, Yam Lau, a respected faculty member and artist from York University, and Ashar Mobeen, a Western University PhD candidate and the exhibition's curator, led a panel discussion from 7 to 8 PM, providing their insights and reflections of Liu’s works.

This significant exhibition was made feasible through a collaboration with the Liu Shiming Art Foundation. The foundation's recent establishment of the Liu Shiming Scholarship at Western University reaffirms their mutual dedication to art that reflects diverse and socially pertinent themes.

The retrospective will remain on display until November 16, 2023, at the artLAB gallery, Western University. Art enthusiasts are encouraged to experience this one-of-a-kind display in person.

Written by Yolly Zhang