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Qi [Spirit] in the landscape painting of Chen Wen Hsi : an in-depth study of his modern landscapes through the most fundamental Chinese aesthetic principle
Author
Chun, Wee San
Supervisor
Chew, Kim Liong
Abstract
The landscape paintings of Chen Wen Hsi are often overlooked or perceived from a Western perspective, hence this study was concerned with examining his modern landscapes through Qi, the most fundamental Chinese aesthetic principle. Prior to the discussion on Chen's artworks, this study traced the origin of the character Qi and defined its meanings in different contexts, namely Chinese philosophy, Chinese literature and Chinese painting. It then investigated the varied translations and interpretations of Qi, identified the errors and cleared misconceptions by offering an accurate interpretation of Qi. Finally, it looked into the manifestations of Qi in Chinese landscape painting, and in particular, in Chen's landscapes. Findings show that Qi in the landscape paintings of Chen can actually be identified and appreciated through the means of Si [Thoughts], Jing [Scene], Bi [Brushwork] and MO [Inkwork]. It is hoped that such findings could stimulate more research in wider areas, such as looking at landscapes of other modem Chinese painters. It is also my sincere hope that the outcomes of this study could serve to provide implications for the teaching of appreciation of Chinese painting in schools.
Date Issued
1999
Call Number
ND1030.S5 Chu
Date Submitted
1999