Visiting Tours around FGS South Island
Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island New Zealand President See Shen Lee on the 3rd of December led a group of ten English sub-chapter members on a guided tour around Fo Guang Shan (FGS) South Island New Zealand and the Fo Guang Yuan (FGY) Art Gallery Christchurch. President See Shen Lee said that through the temple’s architecture, one could understand Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s efforts to promote Humanistic Buddhism in New Zealand. At the same time, she also told them how FGS South Island temple’s design was based on the Dragon’s Gate Grottoes in China – elaborate rock carvings of Buddhist art or statues within caves, a fragment of China’s sculpture artwork to be enjoyed.
President Lee also introduced the English sub-chapter members to the ‘Humanity and Love‘ Oil Paintings made by artist ZiJian Li, explaining the process of making those drawings, and how a the artist came to know Venerable Master Hsing Yun in his journey to become a world famous artist. She told everyone that the paintings’ title was exactly that – a depiction of the beauty and compassion of humanity. Other than that, at the ‘time tunnel’, there is a sculpture made by famous Christchurch sculptor Paul Deans. Paul was there personally to introduce everyone to his masterpiece, and share the initial idea and process that led into making the sculpture.
That afternoon, Ms. Laura Mills of Christchurch also brought 9 of her friends to dine in at the Teahouse. BLIA member Lihson, Ding then took them on a tour to the FGY art gallery Christchurch, describing the exhibition artwork currently on display. He said that the artists’ extremely fine observation skills was crucial to portray the most honest human to human connection, even in a time when resources were scarce, the artist does not fail to use what he can to showcase the precious beauty of humanity. The group also marveled at Paul Deans’s sculpture work, and they were happy and honored to see a piece of local artwork being displayed right there within the temple grounds.
Laura’s friends asked Mrs. Chen why BLIA folks could always maintain their smile? The reply was: In Master Hsing Yun’s “Four Gives”, one of the “gives” is to give others happiness, which means we should all smile! When one carries their smile around, people will naturally smile back in return”. After the tour, Laura and friends felt very happy indeed, and said that they will return someday to visit again.