Join artist Jing and culinary expert Hong for a relaxed, creative afternoon celebrating summer traditions through the art of hands-on dim sum making. This unique session takes place directly inside the gallery surrounded by Jing’s solo exhibition, "Ink Harmony: When Sussex Nature Meets Ancient China."
📅 Session Details
- Date: Saturday, 25th July 2026
- Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm (2 hours)
- Location: Gallery 19a, 19a Hollingdean Terrace, Brighton, BN1 7HB
- Age Guide: Adults and children aged 12+
- Spaces: Strictly limited to 12 participants maximum
- Spercial Price £25 (Special price covering ingredients, tea, and refreshments)
✨ The Experience
This casual community workshop focuses on fun, healthy food, and cultural connection. Hong will guide you step-by-step through the ancient art of making Zongzi (粽子)—traditional rice dumplings wrapped in aromatic bamboo leaves. These pyramid-shaped parcels are an essential summer delicacy famously enjoyed during the Duanwu (Dragon Boat) Festival.
Hong and Jing will help you master the intricate folding and tying techniques. You will explore healthy, modern twists using brown, black, and red rice alongside traditional sticky rice. Fillings can be completely customized with both savoury vegan options and sweet dessert variations.
🌸 Fragrant Intermission Craft
Because authentic Zongzi require time to boil, Jing will lead a beautiful cultural craft during the intermission. While the kitchen fills with sweet aromas, you will learn traditional Chinese paper folding to craft mini Zongzi-shaped sachets known as Xiangbao (香包). These are filled with fragrant, calming herbs to create a beautiful scented keepsake.
At the end of the workshop, everyone will gather in the gallery to taste fresh, piping-hot Zongzi together. You will leave with your handmade herbal sachet and a selection of your own boiled dumplings to enjoy at home!
🌟 Workshop Highlights
- Keep Traditions Alive: Master the authentic assembly, tying, and boiling of summer Zongzi.
- Fun & Healthy Food: Create unique textures with multi-coloured rice and diverse vegan or sweet fillings.
- Community Connection: Meet local neighbours and culture lovers in a relaxed gallery setting.
- Expert Guidance: Learn directly from passionate dim sum instructor Hong.
- Craft a Keepsake: Fold traditional Xiangbao paper sachets filled with calming summer botanicals.
- Take-Home Delicacies: Enjoy a gallery tasting and take home your boiled dumplings.
- Complimentary Hospitality: Sip authentic Chinese tea and enjoy festive snacks throughout the afternoon.
All ingredients, bamboo leaves, herbs, tools, and paper are fully provided. No prior cooking or crafting experience is necessary.
🎟️ Spaces are strictly capped. Early booking is highly recommended to secure your spot!