Core Concept - The exhibition "Joy of Forest and Spring" co-hosted by the Palace Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago focuses on the cultural significance of gardens, showcasing both Chinese classical garden art and global garden culture through various artistic forms and historical narratives [1]. Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition runs from April 1 to June 29, 2025, and emphasizes the theme of "garden elegance," featuring six major garden activities: gathering, collection, mountain touring, quiet cultivation, flower viewing, and musical enjoyment [1]. - It includes a diverse range of exhibits, such as Chinese paintings, Qing dynasty artifacts, classical furniture, Western oil paintings, sculptures, Japanese ukiyo-e, and Persian miniature paintings [1]. Group 2: Garden Culture and Aesthetics - The "Elegant Gathering" section highlights the traditional Chinese practice of gathering friends in gardens, which inspired numerous literary works and artistic expressions [2]. - The exhibition features models and artworks that recreate historical gatherings like the Lanting Gathering, showcasing the integration of nature and human creativity [2][4]. Group 3: Notable Artworks - The exhibition displays various versions of the Lanting Gathering, including calligraphy and paintings that reflect its enduring impact on Chinese literature and culture [4][6]. - Significant pieces include the "Eight Pillars of Lanting" and the "Nine Songs Scroll," which illustrate the cultural importance of these gatherings in Chinese history [5][27]. Group 4: Cross-Cultural Comparisons - The exhibition also explores Western garden culture, showcasing Persian miniature paintings that depict garden scenes and reflect the influence of Chinese painting techniques [9][10]. - It contrasts the intimate gatherings in Chinese gardens with the more private salons of French nobility, highlighting different cultural approaches to social interaction and artistic expression [15][16]. Group 5: Musical and Artistic Integration - The "Musical Enjoyment" section emphasizes the role of music in garden settings, featuring artifacts related to traditional performances and the integration of natural sounds [70]. - The exhibition includes a reconstruction of a small theater in the Qianlong Garden, showcasing the popularity of theatrical performances during the Qing dynasty [72].