Lao Jixiong Paintings

Author: Lao Jixiong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: ★8-inch hardcover, published by Shanghai★ Lao Jixiong, a renowned art critic and painter, studied under the famous painter and calligraphy and painting appraiser Xie Zhailiu. His works are collected by numerous museums and art galleries, and he has published a wealth of scholarly works. His 2011 book 《》 is hailed as "the 'Shiqu Baoji' of the New China." ★ The book features a large number of Lao Jixiong's large-scale paintings, full-color printed with excellent binding, rich and substantial ★ Highly valuable for appreciation and collection
The 《Lao Jixiong Paintings Collection》 is published by Shanghai, with prefaces written by Chen Xijun, Director of the Shanghai Museum, and Zhu Junbo, "China's Top Auctioneer." The book collects outstanding works by Lao Jixiong, a renowned traditional Chinese painter in China. His works are often inspired by classical Chinese literature and poetry, combining poetic sentiment with artistic characteristics. His works possess the following features:
First, the unity of tradition and modernity. Lao Jixiong belongs to the realistic traditional painting school, emphasizing fundamental skills such as dotting, lining, and brushwork techniques. He draws elements from the treasure trove of traditional painting, focusing on creating a harmonious atmosphere where poetry and painting blend. Many of his works are inspired by classical Chinese literature, particularly landscape poetry, giving them a poetic charm. For example, his monumental scrolls 《》, 《》, and 《》 all evoke vivid scenes, moods, and artistic realms. In terms of brushwork and composition, he consistently employs traditional elements, skillfully using brushwork techniques like scraping and outlining, emphasizing the variation and mastery of dots and lines. His compositions prioritize layers and completeness, whether in large-scale works or small square formats, ensuring every brushstroke is deliberate and visually appealing. Some of his works feature layered peaks and cliffs with clear distinctions. However, his tradition is not outdated; instead, it incorporates modern influences. In recent years, he has particularly focused on color variations, refining his skills in blue-and-green landscape painting. He boldly breaks from tradition, using red where appropriate and green where needed, even on a monochrome background. He also boldly introduces shading techniques alongside fine brushwork, creating a balanced contrast of simplicity and intricacy. His works are meticulous yet dynamic, adding a mystical and hazy artistic effect. For instance, his 2004 work 《》 sold by Beijing Zhongmao Shengjia Auction House embodies these characteristics. The entire composition is layered and powerful, with mountains, farmhouses, and green trees arranged harmoniously. It blends ancient brushwork with the essence of modern rural landscapes, offering a delightful viewing experience.
Second, the combination of elegance and accessibility, creating a fusion of Chinese and Western styles that appeals to both connoisseurs and the general public. In recent years, his new works have moved beyond technical constraints, pursuing a calm and refined style with a literary air. His works often depict layered peaks and cliffs, high mountains and flowing water; lakeside scenery with fishing boats singing at dusk; or deep mountains with ancient temples shrouded in mist and clouds. While the themes are traditional, his works avoid pretentiousness or eccentricity, striving for connection with the audience: clear and accessible, appealing to both the refined and the masses. Even those with limited knowledge of Chinese literature and painting can generally understand his artistic language. This is also why his landscape paintings have been increasingly popular among collectors in recent years. For example, 《》 by Shanghai Chongyuan Auction House, each screen measuring 142×45cm, is a set of exquisite works that appeal to both connoisseurs and the general public. The artist has revitalized a theme that countless painters have explored throughout history: the red blossoms and lush green of spring, the deep green of summer, the bright gold of autumn, and the snow-covered mountains of winter. These contrasts in season, color, and variation make the works captivating. It is no surprise that this piece sold at a high price.