Ji Chen
Out From Down Under & Beyond: Fine Art From Australia and New Zealand
May 11 - June 1, 2010
Reception:
Thursday May 13, 2010 6-8 PM
Press Release
Ji Chen has applied the grace of Chinese calligraphy to his paintings of the Australian landscape. His images are painterly expressions of his aesthetic ideals and breathtaking examples of the beauty of his subject matter. His work evokes the myriad of colors of Australia's splendor: the fiery, rust red of wind-blown rock, the deep blue of churning oceans and the visual symphony of the Australian sky. Ji Chen has said that he strives to maintain control of the "chi" in his work, that is, the creative energy which drives him, and indeed, his brushwork reveals a balance of focus and inspiration.
For Ji Chen, the artist is a medium through which the viewer sees not only the painting but also the emotional inspiration which brought the painting to life. Whether he is presenting dramatic landscapes or quiet valleys and ocean views, Ji Chen's work consistently reveals a high level of dedication to a balance of colors and composition, as well as the more immediate sense of his personal artistic commitment.
Artist Statement
I was born in Shanghai, China and naturally Chinese art and culture has always influenced me. I always sought to stylistically blend Western and Chinese art culture throughout my works. The strong emphasis on brushstrokes in my artwork is a testament to the influence of Chinese calligraphy. My most profound memory was the time when the Russians threatened to attack China during the cold war. It was a terrifying experience, and as an artist and a person it taught me what peace really meant. My personal experience of first discovering the Australian landscape had a big impact on me. The unique earthy landscape that Australia possesses made me believe I was living on another planet. I don’t create my artworks for display, but for people to appreciate and find the time to understand what I convey through my creations. I believe that combinations of cultures generate inspired and ingenious art.
Invitation to the exhibition
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Artists in this exhibition
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