Culture

We are delighted to announce that tai chi classes are back.

A new 5-week block of tai chi will start on 3rd June. Classes will take place on Wednesdays, 12 noon - 1pm in MR614, MacRobert Building, and cost £25/£20 concession for staff, students and alumni. Registration is open at our online store.

This low impact exercise is known to promote relaxation and mindfulness as well as improve balance and increase flexibility. It is suitable for many ages and fitness levels.

Classes are led by experienced instructor Matthew Knight of the Ruyi School of Taijiquan and Qigong, who has trained in the Wudang Mountains of China renowned for the practice of tai chi to the level of Wudang 16th Generation disciple.

If you have any questions about the classes, please get in contact by emailing confucius@abdn.ac.uk.

Chinese dance is an important part of Chinese culture and is enjoyed by people of all ages. It can help improve coordination, balance and flexibility and is also a fun way to meet new friends.

Traditional Chinese dance takes many forms such as Chinese Folk Dance, which includes Ribbon Dance and Handkerchief Dance, Chinese Fan Dance, Chinese Flag Dance and Kung Fu Dance.

Niu Xiaolin of RedPhoenix Dance aims to promote traditional Chinese dance culture throughout the local area.

Classes are held at Cults Sports Complex, 4 Quarry Rd, Aberdeen AB15 9TP.

Classes

Suitable for all abilities. All courses are free with a £30 per annum administration fee. Register online.

For queries please email us at confucius@abdn.ac.uk.

Free Mandarin conversation practice

• Confucius Institute
• Thursdays (during termtime)
• Time: 5pm-6pm

Learning Mandarin or interested in finding out more?

Practise your Mandarin skills in our free, informal conversation group.

All levels are welcome from beginner through to advanced. 

Our native-speaking volunteers are happy to help with Mandarin speaking practice and answer questions about China. 

Chinese Calligraphy

Chinese calligraphy is the ancient art of Chinese writing. Classes in Chinese Calligraphy at the Confucius Institute are suitable for both the beginner and improver. With small classes there is plenty of personal attention and printed handouts are provided for home practice.

All materials are provided.

Saturday 7 November, 10.30am - 12.30pm

Cost: £15

Registration is via the University of Aberdeen online store. Places are limited so advance booking is essential. For queries and to express an interest in future classes, please email us at confucius@abdn.ac.uk.

Chinese Brush Painting Workshops

Saturday 14 November

Fish

10am-3pm (with 1-hour lunchbreak)

Location: Confucius Institute, 17 High Street, Aberdeen AB24 3EE

Cost: £55

Register online

Discover the beauty of traditional Chinese brush painting through the graceful forms and expressive movements of fish. Fish are traditionally associated with abundance, prosperity and good fortune in Chinese culture.

In this all-day workshop, participants will learn fundamental techniques using Chinese brushes, ink, colour and Xuan paper. Through demonstrations and guided practice, you will explore brush strokes, ink and colour techniques, composition, and ways to capture the movement and character of fish.

No previous experience is required. By the end of the workshop, you will have created your own fish-themed Chinese brush painting and gained an introduction to the cultural traditions behind this art form.

Sunday 15 November

Tiger

10.30am-12.30pm

Location: Confucius Institute, 17 High Street, Aberdeen AB24 3EE

Cost: £20

Register online

In Chinese culture, the tiger is a symbol of power, strength and courage, and is traditionally regarded as a powerful guardian against evil spirits.

In this workshop, you will be introduced to the expressive techniques of traditional Chinese brush painting and learn how to paint a tiger using a soft Chinese brush, ink and colour. Through demonstration and guided practice, you will explore brush handling, brush pressure and flowing strokes to capture the form, movement and spirit of the tiger.

No previous experience is required. By the end of the workshop, you will have created your own Chinese brush painting of a tiger.

These workshops are suitable for adults and older children (14 yrs+).

For queries and to express an interest in future classes, please email us at confucius@abdn.ac.uk.

Chinese Craft Corner

Date: Saturday 1st March / 10th May / 7th June  
Time: 10am – 12noon
Location: Ferryhill Community Centre  
Tickets: Free, drop in  

Join us at Ferryhill Community Centre for Chinese Craft Corner! Enjoy a relaxed, free drop-in session with friendly Mandarin teachers, exploring modern and traditional Chinese crafts. All ages and abilities welcome, with materials provided. Unwind, get creative, and meet new people!

Unfortunately, we won't be running Bookbug sessions this term but we hope to be back soon.

Spring Family Festival: Celebrate the Year of the Goat/Sheep 2027

Celebrate the Year of the Goat/Sheep at our annual Spring Family Festival on the Kings College campus.

Sunday 31 January 2027

10am - 4pm

Free / Drop-in

Lunchbreak Concert

Thursday 11 February 2027

12.45pm

Cowdray Hall

Pay as you feel