In 2002, the Chinese Culture Center honored one of the most influential and revered figures in 20th-century Chinese art — Chang Dai-chien (张大千, Zhāng Dàqiān). Renowned for his technical mastery and artistic innovation, Chang bridged the worlds of classical Chinese painting and modern expression, creating a body of work that continues to captivate global audiences…
In 2000, the Chinese Culture Center proudly featured the work of Brenda Louie, a Chinese American artist whose bold, abstract paintings explore themes of cultural identity, memory, migration, and emotional landscapes. Her work bridges Eastern calligraphic tradition with Western contemporary expression, offering a unique visual language that speaks to displacement, transformation, and personal history. About…
Chinatown is more than a tourist destination — it is a vital cultural, historical, and social center for Chinese communities in cities across the United States and around the world. From the first enclaves built by Chinese immigrants in the 1800s to today’s dynamic urban neighborhoods, Chinatowns represent both the struggles and triumphs of the…
Understanding one’s roots is central to cultural identity. For people of Chinese descent, especially those living outside of China, exploring and preserving Chinese heritage is a meaningful journey of self-discovery, pride, and intergenerational connection. This section of the Chinese Culture Center is dedicated to helping Chinese Americans — and members of the global Chinese diaspora…
The Chinese New Year (春节, Chūn Jié), also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important and widely celebrated holiday in Chinese culture. Marking the beginning of the lunar calendar, it is a time for family reunions, ancestor honoring, cleansing rituals, and ushering in good fortune for the coming year. Celebrations typically last 15…
The Snake (蛇, Shé) is the sixth sign in the Chinese Zodiac and is deeply associated with wisdom, elegance, and mystery. In Chinese culture, the Snake symbolizes deep thinking, intuition, and transformation. People born under the Snake sign are considered insightful, graceful, and often highly private individuals who rely on intellect over impulse. Years of…
The Pig (猪, Zhū) is the twelfth and final sign in the Chinese Zodiac, symbolizing abundance, honesty, and compassion. In Chinese culture, the Pig is associated with wealth and prosperity, and those born under this sign are thought to enjoy a peaceful, fortunate life. Pigs are known for their sincerity, generosity, and strong sense of…
The Monkey (猴, Hóu) is the ninth sign in the Chinese Zodiac and is celebrated for its intelligence, playfulness, and adaptability. In Chinese culture, Monkeys are seen as clever tricksters with quick wit and boundless energy. People born under this sign are often inventive problem-solvers and charismatic communicators who bring joy and spontaneity wherever they…
The Goat (羊, Yáng), also known as the Sheep or Ram, is the eighth sign of the Chinese Zodiac. It represents peace, gentleness, and artistic beauty. People born under the Goat sign are often considered compassionate, sensitive, and highly creative. In Chinese culture, the Goat symbolizes good fortune and a harmonious life. Years of the…
The Dragon (龙, Lóng) is the fifth sign in the Chinese Zodiac and holds a legendary status in Chinese culture. Unlike the Western portrayal of dragons as fearsome beasts, the Chinese Dragon is a benevolent and auspicious creature — a symbol of power, success, wisdom, and divine protection. People born in the Year of the…