Peonies & Printmaking - Celebrating Chinese New Year 2025

As we enter the Year of the Snake, I find myself reflecting on the symbolism embedded in my past linocut print 'Peonies'. The peony flower, with its lush petals and graceful form, carries deep meaning in Chinese culture that resonates through my mixed British-Hong Kong Chinese heritage.

Growing up in Scotland with a Chinese mother and Scottish family, I learned early on that culture isn't about choosing sides – it's about embracing the richness of both worlds.

The Significance of Peonies in Chinese Culture

In Chinese art and literature, the peony (牡丹 mau dan) holds an exalted position as 'King of Flowers.' Its history dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), where peonies adorned imperial gardens and inspired countless poems and paintings. The flower represents nobility, honour, and wealth – not just material prosperity, but richness of character and beauty in life.

The peony's full, rounded blooms symbolise completeness and peace. In traditional Chinese art, peonies often appear alongside birds or butterflies, representing spring, love, and the natural harmony of the world. The phrase 花開富貴 (faa hoi fu gwai) - "flowers bloom prosperous and wealthy" - specifically refers to peonies and their auspicious nature.

Creating the Linocut

This two-colour print emerged from my desire to capture both delicacy and strength – qualities I associate with my multicultural identity. Olive-green leaves that provide structure and foundation, much like my Scottish upbringing, adorned with pink blooms that speak to my Chinese heritage. The interplay between these elements creates a harmony that feels deeply personal yet universally appealing.

The Year of the Snake and New Beginnings

As we enter the Year of the Snake in 2025, the peony's symbolism feels particularly relevant. The Snake year brings qualities of wisdom, elegance, and transformation – themes that echo through the unfurling petals of the peony. In creating this print, I wanted to capture that sense of graceful unfolding, of beauty emerging from careful cultivation and patience.

A Fusion of Traditions

My journey as a British Chinese artist has taught me that cultural identity isn't a fixed point but a continuing conversation. My peony print represents more than just a flower – it's a visual representation of cultural harmony, a celebration of the diverse influences that shape us. As I celebrate Chinese New Year with my family, these peonies remind me that beauty often lies in the spaces between traditions, in the unique ways we combine and reimagine our heritage.

恭喜發財 (Gung Hei Fat Choi) - Wishing you prosperity, wisdom, and beauty in the Year of the Snake.