An animal-themed art contest in Hong Kong for children all over the world promises to turn into a tapestry for cultural exchange.
Animals universally captivate children’s imagination, broadens their horizons in terms of geography and biodiversity and raises their awareness on wildlife conservation.
More often than not, animal paintings transcend time and national boundaries, from the 36,000-year-old rock drawings of bison and lions in the Grotte Chauvet cave in France and George Stubbs’ majestic horses in 18th-century England, to Xu Beihong’s energetic horses in 20th-century China and Simon Ma’s creative horses.
Art critics say that animal art is deeply intertwined with human ideas, history and biodiversity. It may also be viewed as a universal language.
Children participating in the event will be encouraged to see themselves as part of a global community.
Art can be used to overcome barriers, communicating to diverse audiences complex ideas. From the religious symbols of medieval Europe to symbolic patterns of Buddhist mandalas, visual images can convey meanings that language sometimes can’t.
The competition invites children from Hong Kong and overseas to express their understanding of animals through drawings and share their perspectives with each other and make friends.
While the panda is endemic to China, it is regarded as a national treasure.
This has made panda diplomacy a success throughout the years.
Similarly, there are endemic species elsewhere, and animal trigger curiosity among the young and the old.
Animal also symbolize noble traits such as courage, wisdom and strength.
The prize of a trip is meaningful particularly for underprivileged children who may not have the opportunities to travel.
A trip to another country might spark their curiosity about the world and sow the seeds for lifelong interest.
The competition could also help preserve biodiversity.
While animals like giant pandas, koalas or South China tigers are both cultural icons and ecological treasures, their ecosystems are fragile, and the contest can raise a child’s awareness about the environment and wildlife conservation.
Moreover, the drawings of animals need not be limited to living or extinct species.
Children can be inspired from a wealth of mythology, and an international art competition like this opens their eyes to various cultures.
If dragons have long been regarded as imperial guardians in Chinese folklore, they are scary fire-breathing beasts in Western legends.
Other mythological creatures such as the Buraq, a supernatural creature in Islamic tradition, and Pegasus, the winged horse of Greek mythology, also offer insights into how cultures interpret animals in their own ways.
The contest will help foster the talent and imagination of its young participants and their artworks can be showcased in exhibitions and albums. What’s more, some of their art may even be adapted as mascots for events.
The contest won’t just be a memorable one for these children but it will also boost their confidence as they grow in life.
This rare international art competition not only reflects the city’s global perspective but also its role as a vibrant meeting place for international cultural exchange.
