Chinese Painting Sample Series -- New Works Selected by Wang Meifang and Zhao Guojing

Author: Wang Meimang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-07-01
Features: "A painter's work should be 'untruthful,' it can be like the scorching sun, like the biting wind, or like a fresh breeze." This is a quote from Zhao Guojing, a first-class painter at Tianjin Painting Institute and a traditional Chinese ink painter specializing in figure painting, and Wang Meifang, a second-class painter at Tianjin College of Arts and Crafts and also a traditional Chinese ink painter specializing in figure painting. These art world partners shared this sentiment when discussing their pursuit. However, in life, whether in their personal conduct or in painting, they remain as calm as ever, striving for the demeanor of "embracing all." Their selection for the "Tianjin Contemporary Chinese Painting Exhibition" came as a surprise to them, as they had never considered themselves "established masters." Yet, their inclusion was no coincidence—it was the result of years of diligent effort that brought them to the heights of their lives. Painting is the most cherished part of their lives as a couple. When it comes to painting, they have countless beautiful memories and a hopeful vision for the future. Zhao Guojing said that their love for each other began with painting from the moment they met, knew each other, and stayed together. Their unwavering dedication to painting has provided them with a boundless sky for both their lives and work. They met in 1973 at a fine arts training class organized by the Heilongjiang Production and Construction. Through mutual support and encouragement, and in the practice of creation, their bond deepened as their painting skills improved. When their feelings matured, they realized that they could no longer paint without each other. After the training class ended, Zhao Guojing continued his studies at Tianjin Fine Arts College. Five years later, Wang Meifang was transferred to Tianjin. During their separation, they maintained their connection through the unique collaboration of painting together. Each piece they created during this time was a testament to their love. Zhao Guojing would sketch the initial ideas, while Wang Meifang refined and polished them, continuously refining until they were satisfied with the final work. This collaborative approach has continued to this day.
When discussing painting, Zhao Guojing and Wang Meifang first emphasize their attitude toward life. They believe that art is an expression of beauty, and painters discover beauty in life through their own eyes and express it with their preferred means. If a painter lacks a "public perspective" or cannot approach life with the right attitude, it will be difficult for them to discover the true beauty in life, and their creations will lack impact. They believe in the saying, "A painter's work reflects their character." Therefore, while pursuing art, they continuously improve their personal cultivation. They view painting as a solitary path. Looking back on their artistic journey, it has not been easy, but it has been fulfilling. Their footsteps have covered the vast landscapes of their homeland, and their works have been selected for numerous national art exhibitions. Realistic paintings like "The First Month" and "Wang Gui and Li Xiangxiang" have been collected by the National Art Museum of China. Zhao Guojing has experience in creating over 10,000 sequential illustrations, effortlessly mastering the portrayal of human form, environment, props, and the organization of lines to achieve a cohesive visual effect, especially in his rapid conceptualization. Wang Meifang, with a solid foundation in sketching, portrays figures with a unique style that avoids clichés and embodies the beauty of healthy life. The couple has dedicated over a decade to exploring modern traditional Chinese ink paintings of elegant women, achieving a harmonious artistic synergy and entering a new realm of elegance in this genre.