Come compose your own miniature world inspired by harmony with nature in the Chinese Garden at Montréal’s Jardin botanique. In this 20- to 30-minute activity, you’ll create a landscape using the fundamental principles and composition techniques of Chinese art. During this activity, you’ll discover an art form rooted in the philosophy of yin and yang, where opposing yet complementary forces balance one another to create a living harmony. Full and empty, movement and stillness, softness and strength—each element finds its place in a subtle dialogue. Learn how to play with contrasts, structure space, guide the eye and create perspective. In the second part, you’ll create your own miniature landscape using the materials provided, applying the principles you’ve explored to create a personal piece that reflects your imagination and sensibility. A Chinese art inspired by nature In Chinese tradition, creating a landscape is an art form in its own right, much like painting, poetry and calligraphy. It’s not simply about arranging decorative elements, but about composing a universe by observing, interpreting and recreating nature. Through shapes, textures and composition, landscapes evoke images of mountains, rivers or imagined spaces. Even on a small scale, they become microcosms that suggest a sense of vastness. This activity offers an artistic and contemplative experience that invites you to slow down and explore a new way of seeing and representing the world.