The Splendid Aqua: An International Watercolor Art Exchange Exhibition has opened at the Chinese Cultural Center in Berlin, showcasing over 40 remarkable works by prominent Chinese watercolor artists. This exhibition provides a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with the evolution of contemporary Chinese watercolor painting, featuring notable artists such as Li Qing, Wan Ye, and Shi Qian.
At the forefront of the exhibition is Li Qing, the Director of the Changzhou Liu Haisu Art Museum and a leading figure in contemporary Chinese watercolor. His approach to art involves simplifying complex subjects through refined brushwork and delicate washes, creating a visual dialogue that marries simplicity with grandeur. Li’s artworks are deeply rooted in the poetic traditions of Chinese art while embracing the luminous transparency found in Western watercolor techniques. This fusion results in a distinctive artistic language that resonates across different cultures.
Li Qing has over two decades of experience, and his work reflects a profound respect for cultural heritage alongside a commitment to modern artistic expression. By integrating the rich textures and bold strokes of traditional Chinese ink painting with the subtle tonalities of European watercolors, he has introduced a new dimension to the art form, enriching the global artistic landscape.
Sun Qinhang, Director of the Chinese Cultural Center in Berlin, highlighted the evolution of watercolor in China, noting that the medium, which originated in Europe, has transformed over the past 300 years into a powerful tool for cultural exchange. Chinese artists have contributed unique characteristics to this art form, showcasing a synthesis of Eastern and Western aesthetics.
Li Qing further emphasised that Chinese watercolor harmonises the light and shadow techniques of Western oil painting with the expressive qualities inherent in traditional Chinese ink art. He believes that the Berlin exhibition offers a valuable platform for cross-cultural exchange, showcasing the unique charm that arises from this artistic fusion.
The exhibition also features the evocative landscapes of Wan Ye and the innovative fan-shaped compositions of Shi Qian, both of whom play significant roles in the ongoing dialogue between Chinese and Western art traditions. As China’s contemporary art scene continues to flourish, artists like Li Qing are leading a movement that is reshaping and expanding the global understanding of Chinese art.
Li Qing’s diverse artistic vision is on full display at the exhibition, ranging from serene landscapes to introspective portraits that delve into the emotional depth of everyday life. His delicate washes and luminous layers evoke a timeless quality, earning acclaim from critics and collectors alike. This exhibition in Berlin marks another milestone in his international recognition, following successful showcases in prestigious galleries around the world, including London and New York.
The Splendid Aqua exhibition runs from October 16 to 24, supported by the Changzhou Liu Haisu Art Museum, the Changzhou Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism, and the Chinese Cultural Center in Berlin. Art enthusiasts and the public are encouraged to visit the exhibition at Klingelhöferstraße 21, 10785 Berlin, to experience the unique blend of cultural influences through these exceptional works.
