Visit and Cultural Exchange at Stringless Guqin House
Recently, BC Provincial Conservative Party Leader John Rustad, his wife, Member of the Legislative Assembly Teresa Wat, and several government officials visited the Stringless Guqin House to explore and engage in a cultural exchange centred on traditional Chinese Guqin music. Teresa Wat, who is of Chinese descent, is the first Chinese Canadian to serve as BC’s Minister of Multiculturalism and previously held the role of Minister of International Trade, contributing significantly to fostering multicultural exchanges.
During the visit, I engaged in a warm conversation with John Rustad and his wife, providing a detailed introduction to the history, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of the Guqin. This exchange allowed the visiting officials to gain a deeper understanding of the Guqin’s artistic value and unique musical aesthetics as a treasured aspect of Chinese culture.
At the end of the visit, John Rustad was delighted to receive a copy of Diana’s book The Way of the Guqin and requested a signed copy as a keepsake, reflecting his respect for and interest in traditional Chinese Guqin culture.
I was deeply honored and extend my heartfelt gratitude to Party Leader John Rustad, his wife, MLA Teresa Wat, and the government officials for their visit and support. Stringless Guqin House will continue to dedicate itself to promoting Guqin culture and fostering more cultural exchanges so that more people may recognize and appreciate the beauty of this traditional art form.
Ken Chau is a professional photographer living in Vancouver. His vast experience in photography boasts a broad array of subjects, with his works collected by numerous celebrities and art lovers.