Selected Graduation Works from the Repin Institute of Art

Author: (Russian) Chepotkina et al.
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-07-01
Features: Learning painting involves two main approaches: either life drawing or copying. Since art academies are equipped with resources, standardized teaching curricula, and teacher guidance, they focus more on life drawing instruction. Starting from basic courses, students progress systematically, from initially grasping () to skillfully applying (), primarily through classroom life drawing. However, copying is also an indispensable part of the learning process, as mastering basic () is essential before engaging in life drawing. Life drawing fundamentally differs from photography—it is the product of observing, thinking, and applying corresponding () through the interaction of eye, brain, and hand. Copying is the best method for learning how to represent objective subjects. Self-study, lacking the conditions of art academies for life drawing instruction, relies more heavily on extensive copying to acquire technical skills, whether learning Western or Chinese painting. Copying is the best way to learn traditional techniques and absorb the successful experiences of predecessors. Through copying, students can more efficiently learn how to represent objects and techniques, avoiding the need to start from scratch and minimizing detours, thereby achieving the goal of mastering traditional techniques. The renowned painter Zhang Daqian emphasized the importance of copying, saying, "Painting must begin with copying—it is like reading. Copying is like studying the 'Three-Character Classic.' If one has never read before, whether writing classical Chinese or vernacular Chinese, they cannot write at all. Only with a solid foundation in copying can one discuss creativity." He compared copying to running a business with a capital, warning his students that a business without capital cannot succeed. Many Western painting masters in the world have dedicated effort to copying the works of predecessors, and the principle is () to learning Chinese painting. I remember when I was at the art academy, the classroom always displayed works and sketches by famous painters. Students continuously observed and analyzed these works, adjusting their own representation methods. After class, they copied these works to consolidate their knowledge, gaining immense benefits from the experience.