Embodied Learning and Daoist Cultivation: Martial Arts, Calligraphy, Music, and Medicine
Hosts: Gereon Kopf, Religion; Scott Hurley, Religion
Resident: Zhongxian Wu, founder of QinJian Akademin in Stockholm
Project Abstract
Luther College will host a three-week residency through ASIANetwork’s Embodied Learning about Asia Program that highlights the work of Zhongxian Wu, a Daoist teacher and a lineage holder in a number of qigong and martial arts systems as well as an accomplished Chinese calligrapher and guqin player. Along with Luther faculty members in Art, Dance, Religion, Identity Studies, and Global Health, Zhongxian Wu will involve Luther students in embodied learning activities derived from Chinese cultural contexts, providing opportunities during class visits, workshops, and campus lectures to learn about and, more importantly, experience Chinese martial arts, qigong, classical Chinese music, and Chinese calligraphy. In doing so, he will introduce faculty, staff, and students to traditional Chinese culture, classical Chinese medicine theory, and Daoist practice and teachings. He will also work with students one-on-one, helping them integrate what they learn about embodiment practices in Chinese culture, religion, and art into class projects, performances, and senior papers. Notably, the proposed project will contribute to Luther College’s plans to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Asian Students and Allies Association (ASAA). This celebration will take place throughout the 2023-24 academic year and intends to center not only on the life experiences of ASAA students and alumni, but also the work of Asian and Asian American scholars and artists.
