Tianjin University, a pioneer in China’s educational landscape, has embarked on an exciting new project, the construction of the Feng Jicai Museum, set to open its doors during the university's 130th anniversary in 2025. This new museum aims to serve as a hub for humanistic education and cultural activities, reflecting the innovative spirit of the modern era.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the museum was held on May 28, featuring a symposium at the Feng Jicai Institute of Literature and Art. This event started the construction of the museum, supported by the Ministry of Education, the Tianjin city government, and the Nankai District. This marks an important step in creating a new cultural and educational space at the university.
Named after Mr. Feng Jicai, a renowned literary and art scholar, the museum will encapsulate his extensive contributions to the preservation of Chinese cultural heritage. The design of the museum is led by Professor Zhou Kai from Tianjin University, alongside the university’s Architectural Design and Urban Planning Institute. The museum's architecture aims to harmoniously blend the historical structures of the Feng Jicai Institute of Literature and Art and the former Civil Engineering Hall with innovative design elements.
Feng Jicai Museum is not merely a repository of art and history, it aims to be a key educational center. According to Feng, the museum will play a crucial role in the study and preservation of intangible cultural heritage, making it an active learning environment for students. "This museum will differ from traditional museums by focusing on tangible and intangible cultural heritages, providing a dynamic space for learning and interaction," Feng noted.
Yang Xianjin, the Party Secretary of Tianjin University, has high expectations for the museum's influence on both the university and the wider community. "We view the museum as an educational hub nested within the university, a place that fosters cultural confidence and broadens the intellectual horizons of our students," Yang stated in his symposium address. He emphasized that the museum would stand as a new cultural landmark for Tianjin, enriching the city's cultural identity and attracting visitors and scholars from around the globe.
The museum will feature a variety of exhibitions that showcase Mr. Feng's lifetime achievements in literature and art, alongside thousands of artifacts and historical documents he has collected over the years. It will also highlight the journey of Chinese New Year paintings and offer insights into the aesthetic evolution of the Chinese nation.
Upon its completion, the museum will integrate closely with the academic programs of Tianjin University, particularly those focused on cultural heritage and arts. The museum is designed to be an immersive platform where faculty and students can engage with a rich array of cultural and artistic expressions.
By: Yuan Bo
Editor: Qin Mian
