The full moon of the Mid-Autumn Festival has touched the hearts of countless poets and scholars, representing our feeling of longing, love, and blessings that span millennia. On the eve of the Mid-Autumn Festival, September 16, 2024, Ma Man Kei and Lo Pak Sam College (MLC) at the University of Macau cordially invited its College Fellows, Affiliates and students to gather and celebrate this festive occasion together!
The celebration began with an incredible performance by two world-class freestyle rope skipping champions. Their exceptional skills and charisma instantly ignited the enthusiasm of both teachers and students, filling the dining hall with cheers and excitement.
On this night of reunion, an enchanting surprise appeared. Prof. Zhang Yan, renowned traditional Chinese painting master and Senior College Fellow at MLC, spontaneously presented his classic series of personal artworks to College Master Prof. YANG Liu as a memory of the college. He also guided students in painting scenes of the gentle breeze and bright moon, sharing the harmonious reunion culture and Taoism in China, which drew applause from everyone. Prof. YANG, on behalf of the college, expressed gratitude and praised Prof. Zhang’s outstanding contributions, hoping that teachers and students would further appreciate and learn from the essence of Chinese painting art and cultural aesthetics.
The college teachers and students engaged in the traditional activity of fan painting. Known in ancient times as “wind-shakers” and “cool companions,” fans are not only portable but also carry a rich cultural heritage, earning them the nickname “a wandering art form.” The history of fan painting in China stretches back to ancient times, with documents from the Jin Dynasty tracing its origins to the Yao and Shun eras. By organizing this fan-painting event, the college sought to promote traditional art and inspire both teachers and students to find inspiration, insight, and harmony within its rich heritage.
In the spirit of joy and reunion, singing was a natural choice. The student turned into nightingale, serenading the audience with beautiful Cantonese songs that expressed her love for family and hopes for the future of our motherland
Lantern viewing and riddle-guessing are not exclusive to New Year celebrations. On this unforgettable evening, poems about the moon were recited, and lanterns were exchanged between teachers and students as tokens of blessings that will illuminate the paths of ambitious students and guide their futures.
Mooncakes, a symbol of reunion since ancient times, took on new significance as participants attempted to “DIY” themselves. From preparing the flour and kneading the dough to wrapping in sweet fillings and shaping them meticulously, each exquisite mooncake served as a means for teachers and students to express their best wishes and aspirations for loved ones far away, as well as for themselves in the future
As the moon shone brightly over the MLC courtyard, participants shared their own poetry, bringing the Mid-Autumn celebration to a wonderful conclusion. In the group photo, everyone held lanterns high, wishing for Mid-Autumn reunion and the prosperity of the nation!
Mid-Autumn Reunion Night, A Bright Moon Illuminating Good Fortune
Where the clear moonlight shines, there will always be splendid gatherings year after year
In autumn, the gentle breeze understands my feelings,
The bright moon enters my heart,
May we all enjoy longevity and well-being,
At this moment, together across the world.
