Imagine a symphony of colours. It dances before you on this wall. This is the May an Old Song Open a New World Mural. It celebrates Montreal’s Chinese culture. The mural shows the significant contribution of Chinese people. They enriched Montreal’s cultural diversity.
May an Old Song Open a New World Mural is a project by MU. Gene Pendon and Bryan Beyung created it. Both artists have Asian heritage. The mural is part of Chinatown’s revitalization.
Notice the bright red background. Red symbolizes prosperity. It also means heroism courage and bravery. These are important in Chinese culture. In the foreground, a Chinese opera singer stands out. She wears a yellow lily. The lily is blooming.
Look closely at the background. A circle represents unity. Masks appear on either side of the singer. They signify optimism and nostalgia. These feelings capture arriving in a new country.
Marianne Blondeau assisted the artists. Arnaud Grégoire and Catherine Lemay also helped. They were art students and graduates. They supported the mural’s production.
The Service à la famille chinoise du Grand Montréal partnered with the project. They offered mosaic workshops. Local youth participated in these workshops.
Bryan Beyung was born in Montreal. His family were Chinese-Cambodian refugees. This background shaped his art. He uses graphic design skills. He blends them with graffiti art. Beyung’s art features geometric shapes. He deconstructs forms. This offers a second look at ideas and memories.
Gene Pendon has a fine arts degree. He co-founded Heavyweight Production House. It operates in Montreal and Los Angeles. Pendon also co-created the Heavyweight Art Installation. It combines live painting with music and urban cultures.
May an Old Song Open a New World Mural. It is more than just paint on a wall. It is a celebration of culture. It represents the spirit of a community. It is a vibrant piece of Montreal’s identity.