On 21 February 2026, the Confucius Institute at the University of Liverpool held a creative cultural event with the Victoria Gallery & Museum to celebrate Chinese New Year and the Year of the Horse.
This year, the LCI team were joined by two distinguished artists from Suzhou, China, Ms Fu Xianghong and Ms Zhu Lei, who were invited to share the beauty and richness of traditional Chinese arts. Ms Fu, a specialist of Suzhou Embroidery (Su Xiu), introduced the long history and intricate craftsmanship of this renowned embroidery tradition. She also presented a selection of exquisite works, allowing the audience to closely appreciate the meticulous artistry of this classical Eastern art form.
Alt text: Chinese artists showcasing Chinese embroidery
Ms Zhu, an expert in Suzhou Taohuawu Woodblock New Year Prints, showcased several works rich in cultural symbolism and storytelling. She explained their historical development and cultural meanings, and then invited members of the public to take part in the woodblock printing process. Participants were able to create and take home a “Fu” character, symbolising good fortune and blessings for the year ahead.
Alt text- Three people standing in front of Chinese embroidery and holding up wood block prints.
In addition to the workshop led by the Chinese artists, the Confucius Institute held a variety of interactive New Year activities. Guests could write the character “Fu” in calligraphy, expressing wishes for the coming year, and create spring-themed paper cuttings to welcome the new season. Teachers from the Confucius Institute and students from the University of Liverpool also presented performances including guzheng music, piano pieces, and traditional Chinese dance, creating an immersive celebration of Chinese New Year art and culture.
“Today marks the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, traditionally known in Chinese culture as the Day of the God of Fortune. On this auspicious occasion, on behalf of the Confucius Institute, I would like to wish everyone a happy and prosperous Year of the Horse.” - Dr Penny Ding, Deputy Director of the Liverpool Confucius Institute.
The LCI team continued to showcase classic Chinese culture and craft at Liverpool Chinatown's celebrations over the weekend, hosted by Culture Liverpool.