October 22^nd, 2025, students enrolled in GTCU2023 Culture and Art - Images, Objects, Themes course embarked on an in-depth cultural inspection tour to Zhuhai Museum, led by Culture, Creativity and Management (CCM) Dr. Purrie Pui-Yee NG and Assistant Instructor Ms. Yao XIAO. This trip not only allowed the students to experience the historical context of Zhuhai up close, but also deepened their understanding of art and culture through interactions with physical artifacts and exhibitions.

Zhuhai's evolution from an ancient salt-producing settlement to a modern special economic zone. These silent artifacts and scenes vividly testify to the vibrant vitality and significant status of ancient Zhuhai as a crucial node in the ocean-going routes for ceramic export and the commercial network for sea salt production and marketing, allowing them to form an intuitive understanding of the concept of "objects as witnesses to history" taught in the course.

The special exhibition "LIU He, Marquis of Haihun" was undoubtedly the highlight. The exquisitely crafted jade artifacts and bronze wares demonstrated the superb craftsmanship of the Han Dynasty, and prompted us to reflect on how power and beliefs in ancient societies were manifested through material culture. In the traditional folk custom exhibition area, the vividly crafted models of Piaose (a traditional folk-art involving performer "floating" on a decorated stage, also known as "Taige" or "carried pavilions") allowed students to appreciate the unique folk art and community culture of the Lingnan region.

Throughout the visit, learners demonstrated keen interest, fully embracing the hands-on opportunity to connect course concepts with real-world cultural artifacts. The trip not only enriched their understanding of Zhuhai's identity but also reinforced the value of experiential education in fostering appreciation for history and art.

Text: YANG Kaiyin, LUO Xueyi

Images: YANG Kaiyin, LUO Xueyi, XIAO Yao

Edit: WNG Xi, XIAO Yao