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Chinese painting is an ancient artistic tradition, rich in styles and techniques. Among these styles, the painting 写意 holds a special place. The term literally means "write" (写 ) and "meaning" or "intention" (意 ). Unlike realistic styles, Xiě Yì painting prioritizes capturing the essence and spirit of the subjects depicted, often with great economy of means.
The famous master of Chinese painting, 张大千 , explained that Xiě Yì involved going beyond the external appearance to express the soul and character of beings. This style is both an artistic expression and a philosophy, emphasizing spontaneity and intuition.
The characteristics of Xiě Yì painting
- A spontaneous style: The strokes are quick, sometimes completed in a few minutes. However, this speed does not imply amateurship; it instead reflects an exceptional technical mastery.
- The importance of essence: The painter does not dwell on realistic details but seeks to convey the emotion and vital energy of the subject.
- Influence of calligraphy: Xiě Yì painting shares many techniques with the art of calligraphy, particularly the use of fluid and expressive strokes.
Essential materials and supports
1. Absorbent paper 宣纸
The Xuān Zhǐ paper, also known as "rice paper," is renowned for its high absorption capacity. This allows ink and colors to spread naturally, creating subtle effects and unique gradients.
2. Brushes (毛笔 )
- The large wolf hair brush 狼毫 : Made with wolf hairs, it is stiff and ideal for painting robust elements like branches or rocks.
- The mixed brush 兼毫 : A mix of stiff and soft hairs, perfect for depicting delicate patterns such as bamboo and orchids.
- The large goat hair brush 羊毫 : Made with goat hairs, it is extremely flexible and allows for wide movements and beautiful gradients.
3. Ink and colors
Black ink (墨 ) is omnipresent in Chinese painting. In the Xiě Yì style, it can be used alone or combined with colored pigments to enrich compositions. The artist often applies ink or color gradients, moving from darkest at the tip of the brush to lightest at its base.
The Xiě Yì technique: simplicity and mastery
Despite its apparent simplicity, Xiě Yì painting requires a lengthy learning process. Here are the main steps in creating a work:
- Preparation of a draft: The artist often draws a preliminary sketch on a separate sheet to plan the composition.
- Constant moistening of the brush: The brush must remain soaked in ink or paint to ensure the fluidity of the strokes.
- Application in a single gesture: Each stroke is drawn in a continuous movement, without retouching or correction. The balance between pressure and inclination of the brush determines the thickness and intensity of the stroke.
- Gradient effects: Variations in shade on the brush allow for expressive nuances and harmonious transitions.
Classic themes in Xiě Yì painting
Traditional subjects include elements of nature, often symbolic in Chinese culture:
- Bamboos (竹 ), symbols of uprightness and resilience.
- Plum blossoms (梅花 ), representing perseverance through trials.
- Orchids (兰花 ), evocative of elegance and refinement.
- Mountains and rivers (山水 ), witnesses to the harmony between man and nature.
Conclusion
Xiě Yì painting is much more than a simple artistic style. It is a form of spiritual expression, where each stroke demonstrates the connection between the artist and the subject. While the execution may seem rapid, it is based on rigorous discipline, a deep understanding of the subjects depicted, and technical mastery acquired after years of practice.
Learning Xiě Yì painting means embracing an art where intention prevails over perfection, where each brushstroke is a manifestation of harmony and beauty.
