Contemporary Chinese Art Collection (Volume 1: Portraits)

Author: Liu Dawu, Editor-in-Chief
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-02-01
Features: In the global art world, Chinese figure painting is an independent system with a long history and unique value. It has experienced the brilliance of meticulous brushwork during the Sui and Tang dynasties, the zenith of ink wash painting during the Northern and Southern Song dynasties, and the decline in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Over the long course of history, it gradually developed its own conventions. Since the reform and opening-up, Chinese figure painting has undergone fundamental changes since the founding of the People's Republic of China and has seen an unprecedented revival, forming a new landscape in the realm of Chinese painting characterized by "meticulous and freehand painting in harmony, and colorful and ink-wash techniques shining together." Artists have maintained the creative spirit of the 1950s and 1960s—close to life, embracing nature, and focusing on the times—while actively exploring and breaking through in subjective feelings, expression of inner worlds, refinement of artistic language and techniques, and the development of individual artistic styles. This has opened up new realms in themes, artistic techniques, and tools and materials, demonstrating a vibrant and diverse vitality.
In terms of the overall development of contemporary figure painting, whether in meticulous or freehand styles, realism remains the mainstream of creative practice. However, compared to the realism of the early years after the founding of the People's Republic of China, it now exhibits a stronger tendency toward expressionism. This is manifested in the brushwork, which, after completing the interpretation of three-dimensional forms, enters a more free, diverse, and personalized context. The rise of a large number of figure painters indicates that the future of Chinese figure painting is boundless. In the process of selecting and promoting tradition while absorbing Western painting and digesting it, they have steadily moved toward modernity. Their remarkable achievements not only far surpass those of their predecessors but also demonstrate greater momentum and vitality overall, showcasing a vigorous life force.
The Complete Collection of Contemporary Chinese Art: Volume on Figures is divided into two volumes and is organized chronologically by the birth years of the artists. It includes 661 works by 62 influential artists active in the contemporary art scene. From this collection, one can glimpse the highest level and overall style of contemporary figure painting, as well as fully understand the artistic characteristics and individual creativity of each artist. It holds significant academic value and contributes to the advancement of figure painting.