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Artist inspires nation during war
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ALMOST every Chinese person knows artist Xu Beihong (1895-1953) was adept at painting horses in a variety of ways, but not many realize he depicted the stallions to encourage Chinese soldiers who were fighting during the war of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1937-1945).
In Chinese culture, the horse symbolizes up-and-coming success and a never-give-up spirit. When the country was suffering in the war, Xu used his paint brushes like a weapon, completing a series of paintings meant to steel the nation’s resolve. Some are still highly regarded in Chinese modern art.
This year marks the 120th anniversary of Xu’s birth, which coincides with the 70th anniversary of China’s victory in the war against Japan. To commemorate the patriotic painter, Zhejiang Art Museum is displaying Xu’s signature works through September 25.
Three paintings highlight the exhibition — “Galloping Horses,” “A Group of Lions,” and “Yugong Removed Mountain.”
“Galloping Horses” is typical of Xu’s work. He used bold strokes to portray six horses galloping on grassland. This painting is considered a reflection of Chinese people’s attitude toward the war and their determination to triumph over the enemy.
“A Group of Lions” is a metaphor for the then international situation. The lions represented America, Britain, the Soviet Union and China. Xu used the painting to express his desire for the four countries to fight together and defeat Japan.
“Yugong Removed Mountain” is derived from an ancient Chinese myth that tells the story of Yugong, who endeavored to move a mountain by digging it day and night. Eventually he succeeded. Xu painted the myth in order to spread Yugong’s spirit of perseverance.
The exhibit also displays Xu’s oil paintings. Xu integrated Western techniques with traditional Chinese aesthetics, which was a significant breakthrough in modern Chinese art at the time.
Xu also devoted himself to sharing his knowledge. His students include Zhang Daqian, Wu Zuoren, Jiang Zhaohe and Li Kuchan. Some of their paintings are also on display at the exhibition.
Date: Through September 25 (closed on Monday)
Venue: Zhejiang Art Museum
Address: 138 Nanshan Road
Tel: (0571) 8707-8700
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