Contemporary Ink Painting Exhibition by Seven Artists Opens in Chongqing

Chongqing - On March 18, the "Between Heart and Hand: Contemporary Ink Painting Exhibition by Seven Artists"  opened at the Chongqing Federation of Literary and Art Circles Art Museum, showcasing contemporary ink art's unique charm and innovative vitality. 

The opening ceremony was attended by over 200 guests, including leaders, representatives from provincial universities, faculty and students, alums, and media representatives.

The exhibition features nearly 200 new ink works by seven distinguished artists: Professor Wang Xiaohui from the Central Academy of Fine Arts, Tang Wenguo from the China National Academy of Painting, Professors Luo Liping and Ye Maolin from the Fine Arts College of Fujian Normal University, Professor Zhang Chunxin and Associate Professor Xiong Xianlin and Feng Dongdong, from the School of Arts at Chongqing University. 

Drawing inspiration from contemporary life experiences, the seven artists have infused their emotions into their ink creations, revitalizing traditional techniques through innovative transformations. The exhibition not only highlights breakthroughs in conceptual and technical aspects of ink art but also demonstrates the organic integration of traditional culture and modern aesthetics. It offers audiences a visual feast while contributing to the inheritance and innovative development of China's outstanding traditional culture.

"Chongqing is a cultural capital, a populous and developed city in China. We have long aspired to hold an exhibition in such an important cultural hub. The works I brought this time are the result of two years of preparation, reflecting my accumulated practices and ideas. I hope to present these works to Chongqing's art enthusiasts, faculty, and students, fostering mutual learning and exchange," said Tang Wenguo, Curatorial Director of the China National Academy of Painting.

Associate Professor Feng Dongdong, Deputy Director of the Fine Arts Department at Chongqing University, said, "These exploratory works collectively form an artistic phenomenon that provokes thought and suggests new developmental paths for contemporary ink art. The potential for success may lie within this exhibition or certain artists' works, offering valuable insights."

Speaking on the role of AI in art, Feng added, "Chinese painting is not primarily about imagery; its aesthetic system is built on something higher—spirit and vitality. AI can disrupt technology and replicate repetition, but it cannot replace originality or lead the future. This is the limitation of AI and the enduring vitality of artists and their creative energy. The future is infinite, while AI remains confined to finite replication and integration. It can never replace the essence of art."

The exhibition will run until March 30, with a series of academic seminars and lectures scheduled throughout the event.