Staff, students and members of the local community came together for a relaxing and creative lunchtime workshop exploring the beauty of traditional Chinese lacquer art through decorative fan painting.

Designed as a moment to pause and unwind in the middle of the day, the session introduced the cultural significance of lacquer techniques in Chinese decorative arts. Everyone had the chance to experiment with natural lacquer and mineral pigments, creating flowing, colourful patterns using a guided water-based method before transferring their designs onto bamboo or silk fans.

The workshop offered a refreshing break from the working day while providing a hands-on introduction to Chinese artistic traditions. Each person created a unique handmade fan to take home, and no previous experience was needed as all materials were provided.

More creative cultural workshops will follow in the coming weeks, continuing to offer opportunities to explore Chinese art and traditions in a relaxed and welcoming setting.