Spiritual Calling from Yao Shaohua's Paintings

BEIJING, March 4, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Chinese painting is a highly imaginative and evocative art form, expressing not only a Chinese sense of aesthetics but also viewpoints on the universe, life, morality and philosophy. Chinese painting at its best is not only the aesthetic beauty of the work, but also represents development of character and the expression of national spirit at its best. It is the metaphysical and philosophical spirit of the unity of man and nature. Theoretically, the most important characteristic of aesthetics is valuing the role the "heart" plays and placing importance on elevating spiritual values and improving one's mental outlook. Chinese painting can light up life and brighten everything in its surroundings, as well as help people pursue a more meaningful, purposeful and interesting life.

Mr. Yao Shaohua and his works. (PRNewsFoto/Yao Shaohua)

Renowned British historian Arnold Toynbee said, "Materialism and the degradation of spiritual life serve only to bring pain to human beings. We only hope to revive the oriental spirit, to reverse the decline of human civilization." Contemporary art should respond to the need of the present time, paying more attention to the inner and spiritual worlds, says Yao Shaohua.

In Chunwen's opinion, Yao Shaohua's tiger paintings of freehand brushwork highlight the spirit and, even more so, the meaning behind Chinese painting, with both unique verve and far-reaching artistic conception, expressing his deep understanding of the essential nature of freehand brushwork and the spirit of the times. He extensively draws on others to extract the essence of what is spirit of heaven and earth, and brings together the expression of all things to create spiritual images. This is his spiritual calling as well as the source of his strength as an artist. The awareness allows him to keep forging ahead in his artistic pursuits.