Budapest | Hong Kong | London | New York | Perth | Singapore
Develop. Grow. Succeed.
During the iHUB Research Program this summer, we have invited GEC Teaching Faculty and friends to step outside their academic roles and immerse themselves in experiences that transcend the classroom, exploring the heartbeat of China in its most vibrant cities – Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. We designed a series of trips that would provide our teaching faculty with a glimpse into China's past through its traditional artifacts, as well as expose them to the modern creative culture and arts that pulse through these cities. We believe that this sightseeing tour would deepen our connections with each other, through shared cultural encounters that spark dialogue and foster understanding of the diverse and intricate tapestry of Chinese life.
Cultural Visits
In Beijing, our distinguished professors were granted an intimate look into China's storied history through visits to the Capital Museum and the Chinese Archaeological Museum. Both are treasure troves of historical artifacts, offering a tangible and immersive connection to the ancient narratives that have shaped China's rich cultural identity.
Shanghai's artistic legacy was on full display at the Shanghai Museum East, where they encountered an expansive collection that not only chronicled the evolution of Chinese art and history but also served as a visual feast, reflecting the dynamic heritage of this cosmopolitan city.
The trip took on a vibrant, contemporary edge in Shenzhen. The Sea World Culture and Arts Center (SWCAC) and the OCT Loft Creative Culture Park presented a fusion of tradition with innovation, showcasing Shenzhen's role as a crucible of China's cultural renaissance and its unwavering commitment to creativity and progress.
Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences
In Beijing, professors were introduced to the art of Kite-making, a practice with a history dating back to the Han Dynasty. This hands-on workshop was an homage to the skill and creativity of Chinese craftsmanship. Participants painted and crafted their kites while also learning about the unique design principles that distinguish Chinese kites from their Western counterparts.
Shanghai offered a serene experience in Traditional Chinese Incense-Making, an art that has long been intertwined with the pursuit of tranquility and mindfulness in Chinese culture. Professors were engaged in the calming process of creating incense, breathing in the scents that have been a part of Chinese rituals and daily life for centuries, offering a moment of respite and reflection amidst the bustling city.
In Shenzhen, professors’ cultural exploration delved into Movable Type Printing, a hands-on journey into one of China's Four Great Inventions. The workshop provided them with a direct connection to the revolutionary innovation that democratized literacy and propelled the dissemination of knowledge, so that they could experience the tangible history of communication, from the first printed characters to the vast libraries of today.
Reception Dinner
In each city—Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen—the reception dinners served as convivial gatherings that fostered informal connections between the GEC Team and our esteemed teaching faculty members. These dinners provided an invaluable opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to the faculty and friends who joined us in China, to teach in the iHUB Research Program. We also took this occasion to express our great appreciation about the unwavering support and dedication that our faculty have shown over the years. Beyond food and drink, we also shared our hopes, dreams, and aspirations for the future of our partnership.
As we reflect on the iHUB Research Program this summer, we stand in awe of the remarkable achievements that have marked our journey. Accomplishing more than 100 programs and serving nearly 2000 students, we would like to owe this accomplishment to the dedication and hard work of our teaching faculty and the unwavering support of the GEC Team. And we are thrilled to invite our faculty members to join us at iHUB in China, and we are thrilled by the prospect of future onsite events that will be replete with exciting trips and excursions designed to immerse you in the rich tapestry of Chinese traditional culture and modern life.
