On October 19th, the 48th Northern California Chinese School Association held an awards ceremony for the National Day painting competition, aiming to inspire students’ creativity through art and promote patriotism, uniting overseas Chinese communities.
The theme of the competition was “Beautiful Formosa”, allowing students to freely use mediums such as pencil sketches, colored pencils, pastels, watercolors, acrylics, Chinese painting, or oil painting to depict Taiwan’s natural landscapes and cultural scenes. Many students drew inspiration from their own experiences in Taiwan, portraying the most memorable scenes and turning their love for their homeland into vibrant colors.
The competition was divided into three categories: children under 8, children aged 8 to 11, and teenagers aged 12 to 17. Judging criteria included theme presentation (40%), creativity (25%), and technique (35%).
After a strict evaluation by professional judges, the top three winners from each category stood out, showcasing students’ rich imaginations and enthusiasm for Chinese culture.
President of the Northern California Chinese School Association, Fu Qijun, noted the abundance of entries this year, each filled with childlike innocence and passion.
“Children depicted their beloved Formosa with their hearts, and every painting is touching. We thank the judges for their hard work in evaluation and hope that awarding the children will bring them surprises and affirmation.”
Chuang Yashu, Director of the Golden Mountain Bay Area Cultural and Educational Center, expressed in her speech that the competition co-hosted by the Northern California Chinese School Association and the San Jose International Outstanding People’s Association added diversity and excitement to the National Day activities. The Taiwan painted by children is not only a beautiful landscape but also represents an emotional connection to cultural roots. She thanked all principals, teachers, and parents for encouraging children to show their love for Taiwan with creativity.
The event was organized by the Northern California Chinese School Association and co-organized by the San Jose International Outstanding People’s Association, with guidance from the Overseas Community Affairs Council of the Republic of China. The organizers hope that through this event, children’s artistic interests will be nurtured, and the new generation will experience the pride and sense of belonging as overseas compatriots through creation.
Liao Ailin, the second prize winner in the children’s category, is 11 years old this year. Her artwork, symbolizing Taiwan’s birthday with a “birthday cake” concept, is cleverly designed and has warm colors. Her mother, Lin Yuling, mentioned that Ailin has loved painting since first grade, with five years of experience. “She often travels to Taiwan, and the night markets, high-speed trains, and claw machine stores in her paintings are her favorite places from memory.”
Coincidentally, Ailin’s birthday falls on October 10th. She said, “Because it’s Taiwan’s birthday, I drew a cake to celebrate!” Her sincere emotions towards her hometown were evident in her childlike words.
The first prize winner in the preschool category, Lu Youxin, is only seven years old. She has been learning to paint since she was five, attending art lessons at After School programs and the Mickey Mouse Chinese School.
Her father said, “She loves painting, and her two older sisters also paint, so she follows along to learn.” Youxin shyly expressed, “I’m very happy! I love painting.” Her strokes exude happiness and vitality with youthful innocence. ◇