The lecture was given by Mr. Zhang Guangyuan, a painter, senior planner, and leading Song painting expert at the Hangzhou Southern Song Culture Research Center.

With an engaging and accessible approach, Mr. Zhang unfolded the painting’s creative background, artistic features, and technical essence. He wove together Song Dynasty history, poetic imagery, and the beauty of classical gardens, making complex artistic knowledge vivid and tangible.

Following the lecturer’s narrative, students stepped into the art world of Emperor Huizong’s era, got to know the prodigy Wang Ximeng – who was only 18 when he created this masterpiece – and understood the craftsmanship and legend behind this national treasure.

During the interactive session, students eagerly raised their hands and exchanged ideas boldly.

Some were curious about the pigments and techniques of blue-green landscape painting; others asked how long it took to complete such a breathtaking work; and many shared their personal feelings while viewing the painting.

Mr. Zhang listened patiently, answered with care, and used his expertise and warm manner to create a dialogue across a thousand years. The atmosphere was relaxed yet focused, with thoughts and resonance flowing through the air.

At the lecture, a high-definition replica of “A Thousand Mile of Rivers and Mountains” was slowly unfurled – nearly 12 meters of magnificent scroll stretching beyond sight.

Layers of azurite and malachite green blended into rolling peaks, vast rivers, hidden fishing villages, and arched bridges. Every scene was exquisitely vivid. Students gathered around, quietly observing and savouring every detail – between grandeur and delicacy, they truly experienced the poetic charm and majestic spirit unique to Eastern landscape art.

This lecture was not only an art appreciation session, but also a rooting and nourishment of culture.

For MIS students who are about to step onto the world stage, “A Thousand Mile of Rivers and Mountains” brings tangible cultural confidence, quiet and introspective character development, and the inspiring spirit that “a young person should aim high”.

In the future, our school will continue to integrate traditional culture with international education, allowing Eastern aesthetics to accompany our students’ growth, letting Chinese cultural heritage light their way forward, and helping every student step into a broader world with confidence and love.