Renowned humanitarian-artist Professor Lin Xiang Xiong has brought his latest exhibition, The Vicissitudes of Life, to Paris. Hosted at the historic Hôtel de l’Industrie from September 10 to 13, 2025, the exhibition was more than a display of 25 striking works. It was a call to reflect on the role of art in tackling global challenges.
The event had strong backing from major French institutions. Former President François Hollande served as Honorary Patron, while former Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin attended the opening in person.
The exhibition centred on three urgent themes: anti-war, anti-poverty, and anti-pollution. Each work reflected Professor Lin’s concept of “Art for Peace” — a philosophy that views art not only as an object of beauty but also as a medium for moral reflection and intercultural dialogue.
An academic symposium ran alongside the exhibition, drawing leading intellectuals and cultural figures. Discussions focused on “Intercultural Dialogue at the Crossroads” and “Rebuilding the Concept of Peace through Art.”
Among the speakers were human rights activist Marek Halter, philosopher François Jullien, publisher François L’Yvonnet, curator Barbara Polla, and retired French Air Force General Étienne Copel. Their exchanges highlighted the urgency of finding new ways to pursue peacebuilding through creativity and dialogue.
A major highlight of the event was the inaugural “Lin Xiang Xiong Art for Peace Prize” ceremony on September 12. The competition attracted 1,883 entries from 100 countries, clearly showing the global reach and resonance of Professor Lin’s peace advocacy through art.
Announcing plans for the prize to become a biennial event, Professor Lin emphasised that art should not only be admired but should also serve as a bridge between cultures and awaken a shared human conscience.
Professor Lin described the exhibition as more than an art show, calling it an “awakening of thought” where every piece reflects a silent dialogue between past and present, pain and healing.
His work challenges audiences to move beyond mere appreciation and engage deeply with the social and environmental issues embodied in his art. Through both the exhibition and the Peace Prize, he calls on artists worldwide to unite in their efforts to speak out for peace.
Looking ahead, the exhibition marks an important milestone in Professor Lin’s artistic journey and coincides with plans to open the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery in Penang in December 2025.
Spanning 8,000 square metres, the gallery will be one of the largest private art spaces in the region, showcasing his major works and supporting emerging artists. This new institution aims to bolster Malaysia’s standing as a centre for cultural diplomacy and intercultural understanding in Southeast Asia.
Through “The Vicissitudes of Life,” Professor Lin Xiang Xiong reaffirms his belief that art can be a powerful messenger of conscience.
