copying old masters – 黄宾虹

A few samples of my copies of Huang Binhong’s works

The Essence of Chinese Painting (VI)

Huang Binhong: Learning traditional Chinese painting involves a deep appreciation for the masters of the past. Embracing this philosophy, I took on the challenge of replicating their works, and my efforts were well-received.

This process is akin to studying classical music, where one practices scales and finger exercises to understand a composer’s intentions and techniques.

When copying, it’s crucial not to mimic the original painting line by line. Instead, focus on capturing the spirit (qi 气) of the artwork and proceed with your own interpretation. As long as the painting retains its vitality, you’ve gained valuable insight.

Below are some of my works, with the originals on the left and my copies on the right. I hope you enjoy them and kindly ask for gentle feedback.

Huang Binhong statue
Statue of Huang Binhong in Hangzhou and the author

Find more of my paintings after or in the style of Huang Binhong: HERE

Huang Binhong: A Master of Chinese Ink Wash Painting

Huang Binhong (1865-1955) was a renowned Chinese painter, calligrapher, and art theorist. He is one of the greatest masters of traditional Chinese ink-wash painting.

A Pioneer of Modern Ink Wash Painting

Huang Binhong was a pioneer in the modernization of Chinese ink-wash painting. He rejected the rigid conventions of traditional painting and experimented with new techniques and styles. His innovative approach to composition, brushwork, and color usage had a profound influence on the development of Chinese art in the 20th century.

Key Characteristics of Huang Binhong’s Work

  • Emphasis on Nature: Huang Binhong found inspiration in nature and often depicted landscapes, mountains, and rivers in his works.
  • Dry Brush Technique: He was a master of the dry brush technique, which creates a rough and textured effect on the paper.
  • Emphasis on Calligraphy: Huang Binhong believed that calligraphy and painting were closely related. He often incorporated calligraphic elements into his paintings, creating a sense of rhythm and movement.
  • Focus on Inner World: His paintings often reflect his deep philosophical and spiritual beliefs. He sought to express his inner world through his art.

Legacy

Huang Binhong’s legacy continues to inspire artists and art lovers around the world. His work is celebrated for its beauty, innovation, and profound philosophical depth.

At regular intervals, I try to analyze various aspects of Chinese painting, its philosophy, concepts, techniques, etc. based on short contributions. I studied Chinese art, lived in China for 5 years, studied at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, and wrote my dissertation on Chinese free-hand style painting. Find more of my pictures HERE. Find more articles in The Essence of Chinese Painting.


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Comments

4 responses to “copying old masters – 黄宾虹”

  1. Martha Kennedy avatar

    In my opinion, your work is stronger than Huang Binhong’s in simplicity, movement and line, particularly the bottom painting. But I’m no scholar of Chinese painting.

    1. zettl.fr avatar

      Thank you Martha, you are so kind! I spent incredible lot of time to research Huang Binging and the more I learned the more I liked him. I have some more and I should look for a particular one which obviously impressed some Chinese experts with the result that an important scholar wrote on that painting. it looks all so easy but it is very hard to get hold of the spirit.

      1. Martha Kennedy avatar

        I would enjoy seeing more!

  2. […] like him in any way. (I posted a long time ago that I can copy Chinese pictures relatively well: Copying Old Masters). But what I want to do is to approach the classic term ziran in a modern, contemporary form and to […]

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