China’s Luckiest Character: 福 – 2022 Edition!

At Spring Festival there are many ways to decorate, but one of the most common is to paste the character ‘fu’, 福, on doors and windows. There is evidence that this custom dates back to the Song dynasty (AD 960 – 1279).

福 is pronounced fú and means ‘blessings’. It is traditionally handwritten in black or gold ink by itself on square red paper, with the corners pointing in the directions of the compass, and it is hung up facing outwards to keep bad luck away and bring good luck to the home. It is often hung with other decorations, such as couplets and red lanterns.

Read on to learn about this auspicious character and see some more examples!

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Create your own calligraphy masterpiece with Cultural Keys!

If there was one art form that best exemplifies traditional China, particularly the golden ages of the Tang and Song dynasties, it would be calligraphy. 

Although calligraphy is now thought of as an art form, traditionally it was much more – a way to cultivate personal character. It was considered essential for any cultured person to be skilled in calligraphy (as well as the related skill, painting).

Read on to find out how you can experience this beautiful art form on our next calligraphy workshop!

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Cultural Keys’ Oct-Dec 2021 Cultural Event Schedule

Have we got a year for you! 2021 is full of fun and interesting events from CK – including photo walks, tours, workshops and a retreat! We really have something for everyone!

Read on to see exactly what we have on offer. Everything is open for booking, so have your diary at the ready! And don’t forget to check back often to see the latest information and updates!

Last updated: October 8th

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Upcoming events from Cultural Keys Chinese Culture Centre; Oct-Dec 2020

The weather might be cooling, but we still have a lot to look forward to as we prepare for colder days and longer nights. Cultural Keys has a full calendar of cultural events and activities for you to enjoy over the coming weeks, including martial arts, calligraphy workshops, fan and gourd painting, an online presentation about Shadow Play, and Halloween fun for all the family!

Read on for all the details!

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