On October 11, the School of Foreign Studies held the 3rd English salon with the theme of “Lost in the world of arts”. This time Mr. Pam was also invited as guest to the Salon. “Small partners” were interested in learning about the little-known works of art with high value of appreciation and the unfamiliar works of familiar masters. Mr. Pam provides a perfect “talk show” to guide the students to appreciate the exotic culture, experience the exoticism and strengthen the students’ understanding of the art history, culture and customs.
The Salon started in a warm atmosphere; the abstract, impressionistic and surreal paintings attracted everyone’s attention.., subsequently, Mr. Pam brought the painting art back to the European millennium history and culture. He used the two paintings to show that culture -Peter • Bruegel’s “Babel”, which make us understand the story of the Bible and the Tower of Babel; the other reveals the Nordic legends and Cthulhu mythology. At the Salon, not only teachers gave introduction, some students also came forward to express their views and feelings for the paintings and culture. Mr. Pam appreciated the students’ views and opinions: “You can say everything you come up with!”
So far the English Salon has been held for three consecutive weeks with different themes, such as “The Difference between Chinese Movies and American Movies”, “Gourmet Food in China and America”, which are very attractive. More and more “new faces” show up at the Salon. Through direct conversations with foreign teachers, students can experience authentic English expressions, know more about the societies and cultures of English-speaking countries and feel the cultural differences between China and foreign countries, which would lay a solid foundation for good communication with the westerners and help to develop cross-cultural awareness and international perspective.
Regular English salon activities are an effective way to create a good English learning atmosphere. It is reported that the School of Foreign Studies will hold English salon and English morning reading every week and utilize the collective strength to push college students ahead, create a good class atmosphere and enhance the style of learning.
