The « ART FOR PEACE » exhibition, hosted by Galerie Saladin on July 5, 2019, brought together the Chinese calligrapher Li Guodong and Tunisian painter Samia Ben Youssef in a unique collaboration. This event celebrated the profound connection between art and peace, while bridging two diverse cultures—China and Tunisia. Through their distinct yet complementary artistic expressions, the exhibition highlighted universal values such as harmony, serenity, and mutual respect.
The Artists
Li Guodong, a master of Chinese calligraphy, presented works that evoked timeless concepts such as « Bright Future » (前景 – Qiánjǐng), « Happy and Joyful » (开心快乐 – Kāixīn kuàilè), « Health » (健康 – Jiànkāng), and « Luck » (幸运 – Xìngyùn). His fluid brushstrokes and traditional techniques infused the exhibition with a deep sense of philosophical reflection, drawing from Chinese cultural principles such as Daoism (道) and Zen (禅).
Samia Ben Youssef, on the other hand, complemented Guodong’s works with her vibrant, abstract paintings that explored the themes of peace and unity. Her colorful compositions provided a modern, expressive take on the shared human aspiration for a peaceful world. The fusion of their styles—Li’s ancient art form and Samia’s contemporary approach—offered a fresh perspective on how art can transcend cultural boundaries to deliver universal messages.
Cultural Significance
This exhibition not only showcased two artists but also symbolized a growing cultural exchange between Tunisia and China. By uniting the traditional art forms of the East with the modern techniques of the West, « ART FOR PEACE » emphasized the importance of cross-cultural understanding in achieving global harmony.
Honored Guests and Collaboration
The presence of His Excellency Wang Wenbin, Ambassador Plenipotentiary and Extraordinary of the People’s Republic of China to Tunisia, elevated the event and reinforced the diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations. His participation underscored the role of art as a bridge between civilizations and highlighted the deep respect China holds for Tunisia’s artistic heritage.
Conclusion and Gratitude
« ART FOR PEACE » was more than an exhibition; it was a shared vision for a future grounded in mutual respect, collaboration, and peace. Galerie Saladin extends its deepest gratitude to the artists, dignitaries, and all those who attended, making this event an unforgettable celebration of artistic expression and international friendship.
A full catalog of the « ART FOR PEACE » exhibition can be accessed here : https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hsHvARHp5YLALIk3Utcs2jaVjcpKVaLF/view?usp=sharing
Great piece!
Bravo!
Félicitation!