Various exhibits related to African culture are displayed at the African Museum in Jinhua, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]
Located within Zhejiang Normal University in Jinhua, Zhejiang province, the African Museum at the Institute of African Studies serves as a cultural bridge between China and Africa, offering a touch of home for many international students.
Entering the museum feels like stepping into a time capsule, with Swahili-patterned doors adorned by Zanzibar-style carvings and a striking display of diverse masks that lead visitors into a world of mystery and enchantment.
From stone sculptures and fabrics to vibrant African-themed oil paintings, each exhibit exudes the rich beauty and history of African art under the warm glow of the museum's lighting.
The museum is China's first university-based institution dedicated to African culture, a testament to Professor Liu Hongwu's enduring passion for African art. Through his persistence and the support from Chinese and African friends who love African art, the museum was established in 2010 and has become a hub for cultural exchange and understanding.
In addition to over a hundred exhibits including musical instruments and stone carvings, there are also historical documents on China-Africa exchanges and contemporary research findings, offering a comprehensive journey through the centuries-old relationship between China and Africa.
Since its opening, the museum has welcomed over 100,000 visitors, including dignitaries, scholars, entrepreneurs, and students. It has not only reshaped Chinese visitors' understanding of Africa but also fostered a deeper appreciation for China-Africa relations.
