You are what you ink

An experimental ink-painting exhibition is ongoing at the Today Art Museum, showcasing contemporary Chinese ink and wash.

Entitled Four Square Exhibition on Inheritance of Chinese Contemporary Ink, the show displays dozens of works by accomplished ink painters Liu Qinghe, Wu Yi, Tian Liming and Li Jin. Also on display are ink paintings by more than 20 young aritists, who draw inspiration from cartoons, online games, and contemporary oil paintings.

In Liu's works, blank spaces are introduced to set off the subject matter. The contrastive color scheme produces the effect of layer and space. Under his brush, the life-sized figures and their dynamic gestures bring impact to viewers.

Wu uses subdued ink and simple brush-lines to contextualize mountains, cottages and hermits. Following the classic approach of ink masters in the ancient dynasties, Wu' compositions are unique. The backgrounds of mountains and rivers, which are seen in traditional ink paintings as subject matters, are simplified into several trees and grassland. On the other hand, the hermit is here the main focus, as opposed to a mini-image that is hardly visible in classic landscapes.

Tian borrows from Western paintings in his ink paintings, creating different light and shade effects with the use of ink and color. He uses color patches to convey the character of the figures, rather than subtle lines in the facial expressions. Traditional ink techniques - double-hooking, washing and hatching - are incorporated in his works, creating a kind of calm and poetic atmosphere.

Li draws inspiration from the lives of ordinary people and traditional culture. Under his brush, the family reunion, the tea-gathering and usual games are familiar and pleasant topics for amusement.

9 am-4 pm, unitl March 16

Today Art Museum, 32 Baiziwan Lu, Chaoyang district

5876-9690

今日美术馆, 朝阳区百子湾路32号苹果社区4号楼