Pasadena City College to Host 2025 Chinese Floral Arts Symposium and Cultural Exhibition

The Chinese Floral Arts Foundation–USA Charter, in partnership with Pasadena City College (PCC), the Pasadena City College Foundation, and community sponsor the Chinese American Museum, proudly announces the 2025 Chinese Floral Arts Symposium and Cultural Exhibition. This vibrant celebration of traditional Chinese aesthetics, floral artistry, and cultural learning will take place at PCC’s V Building from July 9 through July 26, 2025.

At the heart of the event is the Traditional Chinese Floral Arts Exhibition, led by Dr. Li, Li-shu, a revered master of Chinese floral arts from Taiwan. She will be joined by three of her senior disciples, who will present original flower works that reflect centuries-old philosophies and artistic traditions.

Public viewing of the exhibition on PCC Campus located at the V Building Gallery will be open July 25–26, with a VIP Reception held on Thursday, July 24 by invitation only, welcoming dignitaries, artists, and community leaders.

Symposium Highlights

Hands-On Culture – Be a Scholar for a Day

This immersive program invites PCC students to explore the Four Daily Rituals of the Song Dynasty Literati—floral arranging, calligraphy, tea ceremony, and incense appreciation. These practices served not only as creative expression but also as a way of connecting deeply with nature. Participants will rotate through 30-minute sessions to experience each art form.

Launched originally at The Huntington Library’s Chinese Garden in 2008 and adopted for the San Marino Unified School District’s fourth-grade curriculum for over 13 years, this award-winning initiative has become an integral model for cross-cultural engagement through arts education.

Floral Arts Workshops & Excursions

In addition to on-campus events, hands-on floral design workshops will be held at the Hill Harbison House in San Marino. Participants will also enjoy a curated excursion to the Huntington Library’s Chinese Garden, offering deeper insight into Chinese aesthetics and philosophy.

“This program bridges centuries of heritage with today’s students in an inspiring and interactive way,” said Vivian Chan, EVP/Curator of the Chinese Floral Arts Foundation–USA Charter. “We’re honored to be hosted by PCC and to engage our community in meaningful cultural learning.”

Cultural Programming at the PCC Galleries

“Thanks to a Community Excellence Grant from the PCC Foundation, this marks our second year keeping the college galleries open during summer to expand public access to cultural exhibitions,” said Jeff Cain, Director of PCC Galleries and Assistant Professor in Visual Arts and Media Studies. “This summer, we’re thrilled to host three dynamic exhibitions: Haitian Revolution: Art of the Haitian Global South, the Chinese Floral Arts Symposium and Exhibition, and a solo photography show by Aydinaneth Ortiz as part of our regional Latinx arts focus.”

Support from the PCC Foundation

“The Community Excellence Grants program was created to support initiatives like this that deeply enrich both our student body and the broader community,” said Kris McPeak, Director of Programs and Alumni Engagement at the PCC Foundation. “Thanks to a transformational gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in 2021, we’re proud to sustain cultural programs that foster equity, diversity, and creative learning.”

About the Chinese Floral Arts Foundation–USA Charter

"We are passionate about a long lost arts"

The Chinese Floral Arts Foundation–USA Charter is dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Chinese floral arts through education, exhibitions, and community engagement. Bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary relevance, the foundation fosters a lifelong appreciation for art, nature, and cross-cultural understanding.

www.chinesefloralarts.org

For media inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact:

Vivian Chan, EVP/Curator, Chinese Floral Arts Foundation–USA Charter

Email: vivian@chinesefloralarts.org