What sounds are hidden within a painting?

Drawing from the musical imagery found in A Collection of Song Dynasty Paintings, The Unheard Melody: Music in Chinese Paintings invites visitors to discover the sounds and stories preserved in these masterpieces. Through three thematic sections—“Harmony Through Music,” “Elegance and Refinement in Music,” and “Music in Common Life”—the special showcase reveals the diverse roles of music in Song society, from court rituals and literati gatherings to everyday life.

Bringing centuries-old paintings into a contemporary setting, the showcase creates an immersive dialogue between image and sound through high-resolution reproductions, specially selected ancient music, AIGC-generated animations, and interactive displays featuring traditional Chinese instruments such as the guqin, pipa, and bianzhong.

This special showcase is presented in collaboration with Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism and Zhejiang University.

Open Hours: Monday – Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM