International Museum Day in China: Celebrating Peace, Sustainable Development, and Cultural Heritage
The 18th of May marks the International Museum Day, a day that celebrates the importance of museums as vital cultural hubs. This year, the focus is on the role of museums in fostering a culture of peace and sustainable development. In China, various institutions have taken this opportunity to showcase their unique collections and offer engaging experiences to visitors.
18 May 2024
One such institution is the China Science Academy's Mechanics Institute, where visitors recently had the chance to explore the former offices of two renowned scientists, Guo Yonghuai and Qian Xuesen. The simplicity of their workspaces, filled with tools such as calculators, watches, and personal belongings, stands as a testament to their dedication to science and serves as a reminder of the significance of these historical figures in shaping China's scientific and technological landscape.
Qian Xuesen's story is particularly inspiring. Having studied in the United States and worked with esteemed physicist Theodore von Kármán, Qian returned to China in 1955 with the goal of contributing to his homeland's technological development.
His dedication was unwavering, even when he was forced to burn his life's work in order to return to China without interference from the US government. This act of sacrifice demonstrates the depth of his commitment to his country and his passion for science.
In addition to the Mechanics Institute, Shanghai's Museum of Revolutionary History offers visitors a glimpse into China's past. The museum has recently opened an exhibition celebrating the 10th anniversary of the museum, featuring guided tours, a documentary on the museum's history, and a signing ceremony for a cooperative agreement between the museum and the Zhaoxiang town government.
This collaboration aims to promote local culture and enhance the historical and cultural significance of the region. Meanwhile, the Quanzhou Museum of Folk Arts highlights the importance of preserving traditional Chinese crafts. The museum's exhibit on Quanzhou's intangible cultural heritage showcases a variety of traditional arts and crafts, including weaving, dyeing, and pottery. This dedication to preserving cultural heritage serves as an example of how museums can contribute to sustainable development by promoting awareness and appreciation for traditional practices.
In Hangzhou, the Zhejiang Provincial Museum has opened an exhibition titled "The Archaeology of the Yangtze River Delta," which displays over 400 artifacts from various archaeological sites in the region. This exhibition offers valuable insights into the history and culture of the Yangtze River Delta, further emphasizing the role of museums in fostering a culture of peace and sustainable development. Throughout China, various institutions have embraced the spirit of the International Museum Day by offering unique and engaging experiences for visitors. These efforts highlight the importance of museums as cultural hubs, fostering a sense of appreciation for history, science, and traditional arts and crafts. As we reflect on this year's theme, it becomes clear that museums play a crucial role in promoting a culture of peace and sustainable development, not only in China but around the world.