Contemporary Chinese Art Collection (Volume 2: 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 peak 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 Chinese art world characterized by "meticulous and freehand painting, and the interplay of color and ink." Artists have maintained the creative spirit of the 1950s and 1960s, which emphasized closeness to life, connection with nature, and concern for the times. They have actively explored and made breakthroughs in subjective feelings, expression of inner worlds, refinement of artistic language and techniques, and the development of individual artistic styles. As a result, they have opened up new areas 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 reflected 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 limitless. In the process of selecting and promoting tradition while absorbing Western painting and assimilating it, they have steadily moved toward modernity. Their remarkable achievements not only far surpass those of their predecessors but also demonstrate greater strength 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 in chronological order 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 creations of each artist. It holds significant academic value and contributes to the advancement of figure painting.