Renowned Chinese artist comes to Bryant University

A member of the prominent Wu family in China gave his first ever talk at an American university.

Bryant welcomed acclaimed Chinese author and artist, Wu Huan on March 21 to celebrate the second anniversary of the founding of the U.S.-China Institute. The visit, which marked Wu's first lecture ever at an American university, was part of Bryant's continuing China Seminar Series. Professor Hong Yang, Director of the U.S.-China Institute, translated for Mr. Wu.

One day prior to his visit to Bryant University, Wu opened an exhibit of his work at the United Nations with the Secretary-General Mr. Ban Ki-Moon in New York City. Wu, along with his father, Wu Zuguang and grandfather, Wu Ying, are famous in China for their contributions to the arts.

Wu's grandfather was one of the first students in China to major in English and had advanced knowledge of museums in other countries. Shortly after China's last emperor was thrown from power, Wu's grandfather recommended the Forbidden City be transformed into what is now the Palace Museum in Beijing. In the face of resistance from the overthrown emperor and his supporters, Wu's grandfather was charged with protecting these national treasures.

"My grandfather was a key player in the transformation from a palace to a museum," said Wu.

Wu's father was recognized as a "young talent," his son said. He was a professor at 18 years old and also published several plays. "My dad played a key role in the art and literature history of China," he said. Through his work, Wu's father was able to show the importance of art and literature in politics during a tumultuous time in China that culminated in a civil war.

Like his father, his mother, Xin Fengxia, was a household name in China as an opera actress, said Wu.

As he learned as a child, cultural activities are important for a person's well-being. "The arts keep people psychologically healthy," he said.

In addition to calligraphy and painting, Wu also writes novels, plays, and poems. He urged everyone to think outside the box in arts and in real life. His recommendation for Bryant: provide paintbrushes, ink and paper and encourage students to do artwork.

"Everyone has the potential to be an artist," said Wu.

At the end of the talk, Wu presented a picture of a hand-drawn bulldog for Bryant to display along with a lengthy scroll of drawings made by his students in China.

President Ronald K. Machtley and wife Kati presented Wu and his wife with a Bryant fleece blanket and hats to thank them for their support of the University.

"Wu Huan's work is a great tribute to the cultural contributions which he and his family have made to art and particularly to China," said Machtley.