On the auspicious date of the Thanksgiving Long weekend, October 13, 2024, the cross-disciplinary art exhibition "Into Their World," organized by students from Green Apple Art Center with Art Hope Foundation, and the play The Late Christopher Bean, presented by the Vancouver Mandarin Drama Society, successfully concluded at the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre. The event was met with enthusiastic responses from the audience and received unanimous praise.
The play The Late Christopher Bean was hosted by the Vancouver Mandarin Drama Society, sponsored by Respon Wealth Management Corp. Together, co-organized by Green Apple Art Center, we presented a successful art exhibition "Into Their World" . The immersive exhibition experience and captivating theatrical performance provided the audience with a three-hour escape from reality, offering a transcendent journey through space and time.
Art Exhibition
As a co-organizer of this event, Green Apple Art Center was honored to collaborate with the Vancouver Mandarin Drama Society to merge cultural, visual, and performing arts. The theme of this interdisciplinary exhibition, "Into Their World," allowed our students to combine their insights into Van Gogh’s art with modern creative concepts, offering the audience a feast for the eyes and the soul through various artistic mediums.
The exhibition was full of surprises, starting with a giant photo wall featuring four distinct photo spots for visitors. As guests moved through the space, they were welcomed into the main exhibition hall. There was also a signature wall for interactive engagement and small sticker gifts, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Behind the signature wall were the key of the exhibition—over 20 young artists showcasing their work in painting, multimedia, sculpture, fashion, and more. Their diverse presentations made for a vibrant and dynamic cross-disciplinary exhibition.
Each artist participated in personal interviews, sharing their creative process, techniques, and the deeper meanings behind their work, offering the audience an opportunity to connect more profoundly with each piece.
The exhibition not only received widespread acclaim but also attracted a large number of visitors, many of whom expressed their appreciation for the depth and creativity of the showcased works. The audience's feedback praised not only the art but also the students' imaginative talent. We hope that through this event, our students were able to find a platform to express themselves, grow through practice, and ultimately improve their skills. We wish each participating student continued inspiration, broader perspectives, greater confidence, and personal growth.
Young Writer's Book Launch
On the day of the exhibition, young Chinese-Canadian artist and writer Peter made an appearance to host the launch and signing event for his new book An Under Heaven. This event drew a large number of visitors who interacted with the author. It was not only an opportunity to share art but also an important moment to inspire young artists to boldly express themselves.
Phoenix TV reporters attended and covered the event, and the book sale raised over 2,000 Canadian dollars, which was donated in full to BC Children's Hospital.
Peter's new book, now available on Amazon, blends political concepts with philosophical ideas and features illustrations created by the author himself, bringing the story to life. His work highlights the fusion of art and culture, as well as his own personal reflections.
Charity Donations
This exhibition, centered on cross-disciplinary art with an emphasis on interaction and observation, allowed students to combine Van Gogh’s classic works with creative ideas from different fields to create a unique series of interdisciplinary art pieces. The event also featured spin-off products, which were sold for charity, alongside Peter’s book signing. Altogether, over 2,500 Canadian dollars were raised and donated to BC Children's Hospital, providing more children with the opportunity to engage with art.
Theatrical Performance
Wet Paint is adapted from French writer René’s satirical comedy and is a representative work of the classical unities. The play uses a nameless artist, based on Van Gogh, to explore the stark contrast between how he was treated during his life and after his death, highlighting the complexities of human nature and society’s indifference.
The script was handpicked by renowned Beijing People's Art Theatre actors Feng Yuanzheng and Liang Danni, and the local team carefully adapted it for this production. Renowned actors from Beijing People's Art Theatre, Liang Yuejun and Chen Hao, were involved in its staging, while the VMDS President and Director, Ms. Han Aitong, oversaw the production, ensuring a deeply artistic and immersive theater experience.
The cast of Wet Paint featured both seasoned veterans and the largest number of new actors ever employed by the troupe across multiple performances. Despite being relatively new to the stage and having limited training, their passion and dedication deeply moved every audience member present.
GAAC Green Apple Art Center would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all the guests who attended. Thank you for your congratulations and your support for our charity efforts. We look forward to seeing you at our next, even more exciting event!