Exploring the Art of Painting Shrimp

Author: Di Xueqi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-07-01
Features: In the field of Chinese painting, there are many young artists who can endure solitude. They are not distracted by the clamor and of the environment, nor do they care about gain or fame. They are willing to dedicate themselves to learning and studying traditional techniques, and they strive to absorb information from the times and nourishment from modern art, thereby promoting the development of traditional art. Even for this pursuit, they are not afraid of "the belt gradually loosens but never regrets, for the sake of the art, one becomes thin and frail." The book "New Exploration in Painting Shrimp" is a prime example. Starting with an in-depth study of the traditional brushwork and ink techniques of Chinese painting, the book meticulously examines the structures, characteristics, and habits of various shrimp. Based on a serious exploration of the artistic modeling and ideological connotations of Qi Baishi's shrimp paintings, it boldly innovates in the artistic representation of shrimp and explores multiple techniques for painting them. It effectively illustrates the relationship between inheriting and promoting tradition, providing an excellent textbook for those who love to paint shrimp.
I have always believed that art originates from life. Art without a foundation in life is like a kite with a broken string. It may soar high for a while, but it cannot fly far and will eventually fall to pieces. However, art also transcends life, being a refined expression of it. What I mean by inheriting tradition and focusing on life is not opposing innovation. Without innovation and creation, there is no art, or rather, no good art. Comrade Di Xueqi's "New Exploration in Painting Shrimp" is grounded in a solid foundation of life. Initially, he gained preliminary understanding by observing large sea shrimp in his hometown. After joining the army, he traveled between Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan provinces and participated in two self-defense counterattacks, accumulating rich life experiences. This also provided him with more opportunities to observe and sketch southern freshwater shrimp. As a result, he discovered that combining sea shrimp and river shrimp could create even more beautiful artistic forms. Building on the work of his predecessors in painting shrimp, he developed his own insights and pioneered new techniques. This aligns perfectly with Qi Baishi's legacy of "those who learn from me will live, those who imitate me will die" and the ancient sages' principle of "learning from the past but not being rigidly bound by it." He is on a healthy path in the world of art.
Di Xueqi is a diligent scholar with a serious attitude toward art. I first met him in 1989, when the National Conference on Graduate Work in Higher Education was held at the Air Force Missile Academy. During the conference, a young officer in his early thirties brought a stack of his own paintings to seek my advice. At the time, although his work had a certain foundation in brushwork and ink, it was still quite naive, and I pointed out a few flaws. That young officer was Di Xueqi, the author of this book, "New Exploration in Painting Shrimp," which was published a decade later. The book is systematic and profound. It not only tells you how to paint but also explains why you should paint that way. It is truly a case of "ten years of grinding to make one sword." Without a serious and diligent attitude and the spirit to endure solitude, it is difficult to achieve such a level. Comrade Xueqi has now transferred to the Propaganda Department of the Provincial Committee, serving as the deputy director of the department's publication society. In the midst of busy administrative duties, he manages to find time to study diligently—truly a rare and commendable quality.
The sea of knowledge is boundless, and the pursuit of art has no end. I wish him continued success on the healthy artistic path he has chosen, as he climbs new heights.