The opening of our exhibition of Chinese contemporary art was quite remarkable. The interest in the event was huge from the outset but attendance was overwhelming. It was, unfortunately, a little bit difficult to get a good view of the art given the crowd. An enviable problem for the gallery but not ideal for those interested in perusing the art. As expected, many people have returned in the following days for a better look. The official opening speech was made by Professor Jocelyn Chey (BA MA Hong Kong; PhD; AM (Member of the Order of Australia); FAIIA.) Professor Jocelyn Chey’s career has been in the diplomatic service and in academic life in Australia. From a position as Lecturer in Chinese studies at the University of Sydney, she moved to Canberra in 1973 when Australia first established diplomatic relations with China. For more than 20 years, she worked on Australia-China relations in the Departments of Trade and Foreign Affairs and was posted three times in China and Hong Kong, concluding with an appointment as Consul-General in Hong Kong (1992-1995). She was the key administrative officer in the Australia-China Council at the time that it was founded in 1979. Her vast wealth of experience resulted in an audience captivated by her words. We were given an insight into cross cultural events, the difficulties they entail and the joy that results once difficulties are overcome. Speaking in both Mandarin and English Professor Jocelyn Chey made people laugh in both languages. An impressive feat from a remarkable person. Many thanks to Lotus for their sumptuous dumplings. The three hour onslaught of demand was handled wonderfully. Hopefully everyone had a chance to sample them. As usual, thanks to the Sofitel staff, always on hand to freshen your drink through the course of the night. A great night for art lovers, dumpling lovers, the artists and the gallery. Many thanks to all of you. We will see you at the next exhibition this coming Thursday the 7th of August for Nick Fedaeff.
Posted on: Thu, 31 Jul 2014 07:17:30 +0000
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