Red Hat Society Canterbury Bell Chapter visited FGY Art Gallery Christchurch

A group of six elders from the Canterbury Bell chapter of the Red Hat Society in New Zealand who visited the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery in Christchurch. The gallery, located inside the Fo Guang Shan Christchurch, is a gift from Venerable Master Hsing Yun to the people of Christchurch and has become an important art hub in the city. The elders were dressed elegantly in purple suits and red hats, and were led by Jenny Stewart to visit the gallery's four large Boddhisattva statues, the "Songs for Remembrance" exhibition, the Time corridor, the Buddha Hall, and the courtyard.

The elders were impressed by the solemn construction of the temple and its beautiful atmosphere, and expressed admiration for the care that had been taken by the residents. They were gifted with Venerable Master Hsing Yun's teachings, including bookmarks, commemorative pencils, and a book entitled "The way of life" which explains the architectural philosophy behind the Fo Guang Shan temple in New Zealand. The group then enjoyed a delicious vegetarian meal at the Dripping Water Restaurant and spent a joyful day.

The Canterbury Bell chapter's interest in the gallery was sparked after their sister groups, Pegasus Babes and Red Poppies, visited the gallery's "Embroidery Elegance - Yao Hong Ying Embroidery Exhibition" in 2021 and shared their experiences. Despite the ongoing pandemic, the grandmothers persisted in their visit and were delighted by their experience at the Fo Guang Shan temple, touched by the hospitality of the residents.

The Red Hat Society is headquartered in the United States, and its members are women over 50 years old. They have multiple chapters in New Zealand, and each chapter has its own name. The Canterbury Bell chapter is named after a vibrant pink and purple flower that resembles a bell, which is reflected in their clothing colors. The chapter leader is referred to as "Queen" and wears a crown emblem on her hat to signify her position. Every Red Hat Lady is lively, optimistic, and humorous, radiating joy and positivity wherever they go.

The Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery Christchurch, is a gift from Venerable Master Hsing Yun to the people of Christchurch. It has become an important art venue in the city, attracting visitors from all walks of life. The gallery combines Buddhism with art and promotes the idea of art as a means to spread Buddhist teachings. By making art a part of daily life, the gallery brings joy and color to people's lives.