CityU students gain insight into the creation world of renowned Portuguese sculptor Cristina Maria de Faria Rocha Leiria to broaden artistic horizon
The activity “In Dialogue with the Designer: Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre” was organized by the Faculty of Health and Wellness of City University of Macau (CityU) recently, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the creation process of arts and underlying philosophies, and to broaden students’ artistic horizons. The event featured Cristina Maria de Faria Rocha Leiria, the renowned Portuguese sculptor who created the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre, sharing insights into the casting process of the Kun Iam statue, the creative concept behind the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre, and her artistic reflections. Sun Pei, executive associate dean of Faculty of Health and Wellness attended the event.
Cristina Leiria is an internationally renowned Portuguese sculptor whose works are characterized by delicate emotional expression and profound philosophy. The Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre, one of her representative works, fully showcases her unique insight and innovation in art and culture. Planned in 1997 and officially opened on March 21, 1999, the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre, composed of a large bronze statue of Kun Iam and a base in the shape of a lotus flower, stands 32 meters tall. After its inauguration, the Centre received support from UNESCO and was acclaimed as a symbol that promotes mutual respect and understanding between different civilizations. Cristina Leiria designed the Kun Iam statue and the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre based on the concept of “Silence and Well-being”, with the aim of providing a peaceful space for the public, amidst the bustling city. The face of the Kun Iam statue was meticulously sculpted, seeking to convey a message of universality and peaceful co-existence among all ethnic groups.
[foogallery id="91290"]
During the event, Cristina Leiria shared her creative concept of the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre, detailing the entire process from statue creation to architectural construction. She led students and faculty on a tour of the “Moments of Light with Kun Iam – Solo Exhibition of Cristina Rocha Leiria,” showcasing a variety of photo and video information to explain her studies and understanding of “Kun Iam” during the initial design phase. She elaborated on the philosophical concepts embodied in the Centre, highlighting the meticulous consideration of spatial function planning, touring route design, and the integration of the building with its surrounding area.
In recent years, CityU has been promoting the exchange and preservation of art and culture, providing students with more high-quality cross-cultural learning and practical opportunities. This activity provided a platform for CityU students to learn about the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre, helping them understand the construction process starting from just a conception to the completion of physical structure. It not only broadened their artistic horizons but also promoted Macao’s cultural and artistic development.
Source: Faculty of Health and Wellness
