A Century of Marine Painting - Baiyuan Tang. Huaiju Cao Tang Collection of Paintings (Volume 1 and 2): Baiyuan Tang. Huaiju Cao Tang Collection of Paintings

Author: Chen Tan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: As collectors of calligraphy and painting, we have a special fondness for Shanghai School painting. After years of diligent searching, we have accumulated a considerable number of works by Shanghai School artists. Under the careful guidance of numerous calligraphers, appraisers, and collectors in Shanghai, our understanding of the Shanghai School has deepened. Through exhibitions, publications, and art books, we actively promote and advocate for Shanghai School painting, striving tirelessly to uphold the dignity of Chinese art. Though our efforts may be limited, we remain unwavering in our commitment. The renowned literary figure Du Xuan once wrote an article offering us great encouragement and heartfelt expectations, which we still clearly remember.
Overall, Shanghai School painters of the generation were well-read and deeply immersed in tradition, possessing a solid foundation in traditional Chinese culture. This played a crucial role in their mastery of the six artistic principles, their adherence to tradition while innovating, and their establishment of distinct artistic schools. In other words, neglecting tradition will inevitably lead to decline and stagnation—like water without a source, how can it not decay? Like roots without a trunk, how can it grow? Therefore, the vitality of art lies in continuous absorption and innovation. In terms of artistic expression and style, one must neither cling to outdated conventions nor act arbitrarily. The difference between an artist and a craftsman lies in their ability to learn the essence of the past while developing their own unique insights and innovative styles, thereby carrying forward tradition and becoming a great master of their time.