The Chinese Seal Carving Exhibition officially opens at Xiamen University Malaysia on 9 June 2025, offering students, staff, and visitors an opportunity to explore the intricate beauty of traditional Chinese seal carving.

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The exhibition presents 59 seal carving works created by students enrolled in the course Chinese Seal Carving (G0179) for 2025/02 semester. These pieces reflect a diverse range of styles and inspirations -some draw from the techniques of classical Chinese masters such as Qi Baishi and Deng Shiru, while others incorporate Japanese aesthetics or deeply personal narratives.

Each seal on display tells a unique story. Some are tributes to family traditions or departed loved ones, while others commemorate milestones, dreams, or special occasions like birthdays. To deepen audience engagement, the students' personal reflections and stories behind their works have been printed and displayed alongside the artworks.

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To complement the visual exhibition, the university library has curated a mini reading corner featuring selected books on seal carving, and calligraphy. Visitors are encouraged to browse these materials to gain a fuller understanding of the cultural context behind the art form.

In addition to the exhibit, visitors are invited to participate in a stamping activity designed to introduce the tactile experience of seal art. No prior experience is required, and all materials are provided at the venue.

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Four Experience Sections

The workshop is divided into four sections, offering both traditional and modern experiences:

Section 1: Traditional Image Stamps

Use traditional Chinese red ink pads to stamp seals featuring iconic imagery such as horses, oxen, and natural elements.

Section 2: Traditional Character Stamps

Focuses on character-based designs that reflect the essence of Chinese calligraphy.

Section 3: Modern Image Stamps

Combines traditional stamp forms with modern and youthful imagery. This section uses standard office ink pads.

Section 4: Creative Fusion

A blend of traditional techniques and contemporary aesthetics. Stamps in this section also use office ink pads.

Please note: Do not mix the ink pads between sections. Traditional stamps should only be used with red ink pads, and modern stamps with regular office ink pads. Maintaining this separation helps preserve the quality of both the stamps and the inks.

How to Participate

1. Choose a stamp from the station.
2. Gently press it onto the appropriate ink pad.
3. Stamp it evenly onto the paper provided.
4. Clean the stamp using the wet tissues available.
5. Dispose of used tissues properly.
6. Return all materials to their original place.
7. Continue exploring other stations at your own pace.

Each participant is given one sheet of paper for stamping. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful and use the resources with care.

The exhibition will be held from 9 to 30 June 2025 (Stamping Week: 9 to 15 June 2025) at the 2nd Floor, Block A3, Xiamen University Malaysia. Opening hours are 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays, and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends.